I think I’ve reached the age, and stage in my marriage, where lingerie is not all about push-up bras, chaffing undercarriages and bells and whistles (was it ever?!). Whilst I’m not ready to give in to the sensible belly button warmers quite yet, I now yearn for comfy, everyday staples offering enough support for my post-baby bazookers, with just a hint of sexy mama.
Especially for summer, I like soft, sheer fabrics in pastel shades from the likes of…
Intimissimi
When in Italy, I can’t resist buying Intimissimi lingerie. I love their lacy bralettes, peeping out from a linen or chambray shirt. I think this set from their ‘Summer in Sicily’ collection (above) is so, so pretty. Their swimwear is fab, too.
Floral embroidery triangle bra, £47, Intimissimi
Bodas
I’ve been writing about Bodas for over a decade – in fact my first ever shopping feature was for Grove magazine, a luxury lifestyle magazine for Notting Hill, home to Bodas’ flagship store. I extolled the virtues of their cashmere soft, comfy, pretty lingerie then – and my opinion hasn’t changed. I love this blush pink for summer. I know it doesn’t look that ‘wow’, but trust me – it has underwiring but no padding, giving a really flattering, natural shape. It’s beautifully made and oh-so soft. A proper underwear staple that still feels special.
Smooth Tactel Underwire Bra, £45, Bodas
La Perla
Okay, how beautiful is La Perla lingerie? Sigh. It’s like candyfloss, frothy and sweet… shame it’s ruinously expensive. Maybe I need to find a Parisian lover who will keep me in luxury lingerie…. Or, perhaps more practically….
How about this £12.99 H&M bralette instead?
Cos
I’ve championed Cos for their undies before and this season’s are fab. They’re not great for big boobs, but they are soooooo comfy in jersey and sheer fabrics. Proper grown-up, sexy under crackers.
Sheer lace bra, £25, knickers, £12, Cos
I *love* underwear shopping but loathe swimwear shopping… which is my next task, any recommendations?
