Brown Thomas was out to teach Ireland's fashion set valuable lessons in lingerie today. While sipping on unnamed green juice and nibbling regretted scones, the heating was turned up as we watched Ireland’s top models show off this season's finest autumn winter knickers.
First up was shapewear, an unusual category to dedicate an entire catwalk section to, but something that we were all grateful for. There was nothing too surprising in this category: skin tone and black reigned supreme in terms of colour, with Spanx remaining a firm favourite across hosiery and leggings. Wacol is the other go to brand in this category and did not disappoint in its range of practical (and very helpful) shape wear. Triumph also showed their new "Magic Wire", which is actually a new silicone support system, without any wire at all.
Lesson: enviable figures are made, not born.
Next up was the "style" category. This was when things really got interesting. Beautiful colours, textures and patterns appeared again and again. In terms of trends, there will be something for everyone this coming season. Echoing the outerwear catwalks, there was a sense of anything goes as we saw animal prints, shimmering slivers and golds, florals, fine detailing, embroidery and, of course, classic lace. Colours were rich and mostly jewel-toned reds, purples, pinks and blues. These were all pieces that are worn to be seen. Shapes and cuts were also varied with high waists, hipster briefs, plunge, demi-cup and balconette bras. Among the favourite brands were Elle Macpherson, Stella McCartney, Calvin Klein and Freya and Fantasie.
Lesson: take your favourite trend and run with it.
The final section was entitled "treat yourself", so as you can imagine, no beige granny pants here. Old favourites Agent Provocateur and Simone Perele were mixed with designers Lise Charmel and b.tempt’d. Cruz control, the new collection that was on exhibit from Agent Provocateur, founded by Penelope and Monica Cruz, was as feminine and provocative as you might expect it to be. The black suspenders and bodies in particular were showstoppers. For those of a more modest disposition, delicate satin camis and shorts were presented by Myla and would flatter all figures. Lise Charmel, inspired by French and Italian art, showed flirty lace detailing and exquisite bridal pieces. With each set we saw hosiery from Woldford and Falker, whose stockings come in every denier you could need. Just what the doctor ordered coming into a chilly October.
Lesson: suspenders are still sexy but practical stockings reign.
