Many a fashion or beauty journalist has talked of "little luxuries" in the past but said treats have, perhaps, never been quite as vital to us as they have since we were first thrown into a lockdown. With the new perspective this experience gave us, nowadays it's often the small things that matter, and when it comes to getting ready each morning, there are a few particular items that always lift our moods: A new perfume can be ritualistic and special, a secondhand item that hits a new trend might prove to be the exciting wardrobe trophy you've been looking for, and putting on underwear that fits perfectly and feels lovely can be the ultimate confidence booster. It may only be visible to you, but being considered in regards to what you're wearing under whichever outfit has become your current uniform does provide a certain amount of self-congratulatory back-patting. It may feel unnecessary to buy a fancy new dress or pair of heels, but decent lingerie? Well, that's never out of fashion. And this may be a sweeping statement, but I'm convinced that no one has ever felt their best when they're wearing old, holey, and worn-out undies.
Maybe, like me, you've hit paused on snapping up more trend-led items and doubled down on the essentials. A decent loungewear look, some cosy PJs, a warm puffer coat, and—of course—flattering, stylish bras and knickers. I've already got the basics (like a nude, white, and black T-shirt bra, for example), so I've been branching out into more colourful lingerie, and it appears I'm not the only one. When I spoke to Tanya Robertson, founder of Womanhood (aka the coolest, most progressive, and inspiring online store to buy your undies from these days), she confirmed it: "We have seen an 85% percent increase in our customers buying colourful lingerie since the first lockdown," she says. "With your underwear drawer the first place you go to get dressed every morning, it’s no wonder that during these difficult times women are opting for colourful underwear to brighten up their day. Coined ‘dopamine dressing,’ it has been proved that colourful items of clothing increase happiness." With one particular style—a red lace set called Bonnie from New Zealand brand Lonely—proving to be particularly popular, it's the first time Womanhood has had such a long waitlist.
Lonely isn't the only indie lingerie label leaning into this look. I've noticed vibrant styles at some of my other favourites: Beija has just introduced a hot-pink mesh that's incredible (yes—I bought it), Dora Larsen has the cutest candy hues with contrast trims, and Fruity Booty has the coolest orange checked set if you're keen to get something really unique. There are certain shades I'm noticing more than others, so below, I've divided the shopping options up into each colourful lingerie trend you can buy right now. Enjoy!
PINK
From pink gingham to vibrant fuchsia, there are all shades of pink to introduce into your lingerie collection this season.
Strawberries and gingham aren't reserved for summer.
This matching set is so affordable—I want it in bikini form, too.
The contrast of sorbet shades is really uplifting.
Pretty and sexy.
GREEN
Green feels like an autumnal indulgence, especially in darker, forest or loden shades.
Getting dressed will be a joy with this as your base layer.
The perfect emerald green shade.
All of Other Stories' lingerie sets are incredibly feminine.
Really, there's too many to choose from.
ORANGE
Orange makes for a great switch-up from your day-to-day nude-coloured undies.
Mesh bras are ideal for those with smaller busts. They provide just the right level support, and look super contemporary.
These briegs look seriously comfortable—which, of course, is priority #1.
The tangerine trend extends to underwear, too.
This thong comes in a three-pack, so if you really love the shade you can stock up.
LILAC
Lilac undies are not your obvious choice and that's why we like them.
This colour combination is so pretty.
Naturally, you'll need the whole set.
Between the padded cup, underwiring and thick straps, this bra looks extra supportive.
This lilac hue is pale enough to wear under light clothing.
RED
When opting in for red season, be sure to check out the jewel-like, deeper tones for something a little different and ultra-sophisticated.
Take your power dressing to the next level with this rich red lingerie.
I just know these will be ultra-flattering.
You'll feel your most confident in this intricate design.
The matching briefs = bonus confidence.
BLUE
This ticks-every-box bra is available in cup sizes A to G.
Again, these look so comfy thanks to the thick waistband.
Throw a tee on top and you're ready to go.
Soft and breathable, this is a winning pair.
YELLOW
When in doubt, opt for a classic triangle bra.
Wear-all-day knickers.
Sunshine in a bra.
High-waisted briefs are the best option to feel supported.
Next up, 11 Brands That Prove Gorgeous Lingerie Shouldn't Cost a Fortune
