Unsexy underwear: A stylish comeback

From granny panties to pointy bras, the last resort of your underwear drawer is back in style. Discover all the fabulous options making a statement.

By TALI ARBEL

JUNE 27, 2024 00:00

The following article was published originally in August 2023. We are sharing it now for your perusal, but take into account that the following information may be outdated.

The next micro-trend inspired by the 1950s aligns, as expected, with other hot macro trends making headlines; be it the sheer trend, or lingerie worn as outerwear—in short, bedroom aesthetics. Contrary to popular belief, bras and panties in ‘granny’ silhouettes aren’t necessarily aiming for designs like the dreary shapewear Bridget Jones sported in the famous cult film. Rather, they refer to beautiful, vintage-inspired items that make you feel most comfortable.

OOLA for Terminal X: Panties NIS 199.90, Bra NIS 319.90

As far back as the 1950s, pin-up stars like Bettie Page crowned the high-waisted silhouette that emphasizes the waistline as sexy. About four decades later, thanks to Calvin Klein, supermodels Kate Moss and Christy Turlington revolutionized granny panties as they peeked out from under their baggy jeans. In recent years, leading fashion houses have showcased their interpretations on the runway—from Stella McCartney’s pointed retro bras that stood out through all the outfits in her Fall 2017 collection, to Miu Miu’s coveted silk panties dominating recent seasons on runways, magazine covers, and even the streets. What was once considered taboo has suddenly become a must-have item, especially under a sheer dress.

Olivia von Halle for Factory 54: NIS 745 per set

Containing cotton fabrics, pointed cups, wireless designs, in basic colors and high cuts—everything that’s perceived as the opposite of sexy lingerie is extra hot right now. Consequently, more and more brands are embracing the restrained seduction aesthetic, offering underwear with fuller coverage, revealing a hint while concealing much more. Even lace models look much more beautiful and detailed on more fabric. Thongs and bikinis and sexy balconette bras had their moment, no doubt, and will always have a place, especially if that's your cup of tea, but consumers (both young and older) are also looking for other things.

Femina Bra: NIS 137

When it comes to what you choose to wear underneath your clothes, whether you’re into letting pieces peek out or not—it’s obviously a personal preference, and hey, freedom of choice is always sexy! But it also reflects the changing ideals of female beauty over the decades we've gone through. When the Kardashian family rose to fame, with all their curves (back then), high-waisted panties, for example, that highlight and emphasize the body, returned to fashion. Fast forward to 2023, outdated designs have received an updated interpretation, maintaining all the comfort features of course, but also focusing on a fresh design spirit. Feel free to scroll and fall in love.