Call it a conspiracy but many a designer from New York to Paris promoted ‘legs’ as the erogenous zone of the moment. While hemlines remained high, another, rather revealing trend came in the guise of lingerie.

Underwear as outerwear; Jean Paul Gaultier referenced his iconic cone bras of yesteryear while transparent slips, corsetry and feminine lace-trims featured through-out the Christian Dior show. Pointing the finger at Lady GaGa and her knicker wearing antics the trend also winks at boudoir dressing and burlesque femininity.

While burlesque and boudoir may not be new in the trend stakes they provide prominent design inspiration set to continue well into next season. Ladylike as opposed to raunchy, the appeal of lingerie ticks all the ‘feminine chic’ boxes with a touch of vintage nostalgia thrown in.

Antonio Berardi and Fendi revealed embellished corsets and lace-trimmed bras too pretty to hide, while Alexander Wang and Dolce & Gabbana added 50s style briefs into the mix.

Great on the catwalk but back in the real world the trend translates in a more subtle manner; delicate lace trims on hemlines, transparent sections and layers, a hint of corset or bra strap on show. However, it’s probably advisable to leave the knicker flashing shenanigans to those pap hungry celebs.

By JoJo Iles