♥ [Borrowed From Boys]

Photos by Irene Tran

It took me a while to figure out how to wear this vest while still keeping it feminine and clean cut. But I got inspired by many of the drop hems seen on the runway this season and loved the retro androgynous style. However, to add some effeminate details, I used an intimate piece with an interesting pattern to show a bit of softness.

What I'm Wearing

Vest: Similar (in black)
Hat: Similar
Skirt: American Apparel
Lingerie: American Apparel
Stockings: Similar
Shoes: Cole Haan (similar form Rag & Bone)

Dare to Bare: Gentlemen's Choice

Casabella Color Splash Lingerie Line

In the tradition of last year's Valentine's day post, we asked some of our gentleman friends to pick what they would like to see girls wear underneath their clothes, just based on their perspective, as an  accompaniment to our lingerie post. We thought it would be interesting to let the guys do the shopping and find out what they think is sexy. Ladies, we want to hear what you think of these gents' choices! Who did you love the best? Who really missed the mark?


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Dan
"When it comes to lingerie, there is nothing more classically sexier than a garter belt and backseam thigh-highs. With matching bra and panties, these make anyone look like they just retired to their room overlooking the Riviera and slipped out of their pearls. All in black of course."

American Apparel

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Brandon
"In a world filled with hyper-sexualised entertainment and advertisements, it's nice to return to something a bit subdued; something that leaves room for your imagination to wander. What I've chosen is something sensual but does not give away too much. There should be some sort of build-up and anticipation with lingerie. A lot of these one-pieces, especially the lilibons wear, appear classic, accentuate shapes, adds a little bit of playfulness. They are sexy without being totally explicit. In modern times we've traded in tease for sleaze, you can still be sexy whilst wearing a number of the outfits displayed here."

Etsy

Alibaba

Lilibon

So Anxious Clothing

Agent Provocateur

American Apparel

Rakuten

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Johnny
"The thing about lingerie is this: it's not so much the lack of clothing that catches our eye, but it is, rather, the promise and tease of what lies underneath. It's that perfect moment when, too much more or too much less both result in there being nothing left to see.

My taste in lingerie is much like my preference for women: cute and feminine, while striking the right balance between conservative and edgy. And what says this better than black and pink?"

French Lingerie Outlet

French Lingerie Outlet

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Hsiao
"It's simple, seductive, and sophisticated. It leaves something for the imagination and it caters to the classy but naughty gentleman. I love it because if a woman wears that for me, she's trying to make our night special. She's showing me her best. It shows me she understands taste and pleasure. It's like opening a beautifully wrapped present knowing what's inside is going to be amazing."

Victoria's Secret

Dare to Bare: Valentine's Day Lingerie Picks

We agree that clothes have power and what you wear under your clothes is no different. We all love our boy shorts and bloomers for their comfort but when it comes to harnessing the power of underwear, those just don't cut it. Power is what it comes down to when it comes to lingerie. A piece of lingerie should make you feel like a goddess, not a plaything. It should highlight your beauty and grace and express that it is any man's (or woman's) privilege to be with you. That is the power of lingerie.

Last year for Valentine's Day we did a post on what to wear on a date. This year we decided to explore what's underneath those clothes in our first ever not safe for work post. We figured that clothes will always flatter your body but lingerie will make you love it. Enjoy the results!


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Either you have a special someone or you are taking your time with independence, it is always nice to indulge a bit see-through lace and soft silk to cherish your body. Why not take this Valentine's day as an opportunity to give yourself some treat? Undress and dress up, be powerful and beautiful.



Baby Doll

Journelle lookbook 2013: American Beauty

Left: Polka Dot Top: VC  / Right: Black Top: Intimissimi

Left:Berry Kiss Boudoir Bra: Journelle /  Right: Kitty Cut Bra: Journelle

Cover Up for More

Ell&Cee

left: fairefroufrou / Right: VC

Urban Youth

Princess Tam Tam

Princess Tam Tam

Princess Tam Tam

American Apparel

Vintage Inspired

Baby Grand

Rosebud & Slave

Modcloth

Modcloth

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Lingerie can be just as inspired as fashion so I picked a few designers that have interesting and inspired collections. I don't always agree with expensive lingerie but I understand it. Lingerie is a piece of clothing that will stay in your closet forever so it might as well be something that you look incredible in. Any price is a small price to pay compared to how you will feel when you're wearing it.


Marika Vera


For a brand whose slogan is "Better than Naked," Marika Vera really set out to prove that there is such a thing. And the thing is... I believe her. The pieces give a little bit of sexiness to the observer, everything to the the person privileged enough to touch, and all the power to you. Not Just a Label described her best when they said "Marika Vera exists to empower women, to inspire them to live sensually in a pleasing and sophisticated way for themselves and others."

Below is two of her collections. The first being "Venus in Furs" which is now 40% on her website. The second is her new collection "Queen of the Galaxy" which you can find in stores now.

 

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Nichole De Carle

Nichole De Carle somehow found a way to combine architecture, art, and literature and turn it into lingerie. Her designs were inspired by architectural icons in the historic capitals of the world: The Duomo in Milan, Westminster Abbey in London, the Chrysler building in New York, and Chateau de Villette in Paris. However, the clean lines and interesting structure of her lingerie doesn't make you think of building but rather helps you see your body in a whole new way.

Much of the her collection can be found on ASOS but you can also shop the brand's website.mari

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Lasvicious

A brand started by Chloe Hamblen, Lasvicious strives to produce empowering lingerie with a bit of edge. Her provocative designs definitely make it obvious who is really the true ruler of the bedroom. You can find the first collection on sale in certain boutiques. We also have a preview of her new collection that's soon to come.

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La Perla

La Perla is the most popular and accessible brand of lingerie we have so far. They're known, not only for they luxurious and elegant designs, but for the inspiration they take from history and culture as well. You can find a wide range of selection of La Perla lingerie at Nordstrom or on Amazon. But the best place to find what you're looking for is on their website.