This Is Me ~ Barbara Lingerie
I graduated college in 1972. Feminism was hurdling full speed into the dialog. I got the message, but couldn’t get into it. I was raised by parents who taught me to take care of myself; to never depend on another person for survival. My dad was never a princess dad. My mom demanded self-respect. It was about personal growth. They supported my creativity but schooled me to balance quality and cost. They advocated friendships and encouraged fun. I never felt deprived because I was female even if the political reality was (and still can be) contradictory. I knew that if I persevered, options might change. I am sure that these values have informed my perspective on lingerie. For me, intimate apparel is (or should be) an expression of feminine empowerment:
I don’t know exactly why, but when I saw this image from Barbara Lingerie’s Twist collection, it got me thinking about feminism, my take on it and its relationship with Lingerie. Maybe it’s the silk ribbon tied converse sneakers combined with such an artfully embroidered bra and panty set. I had 2 pairs of hi-tops in the 70’s long before it was a fashion trend. (Mine had basic shoelaces). Or it could be the straight-on gaze of a woman sitting on the floor unabashedly in her underwear. Whatever it is, it captures the brands roots in one photograph. After all, Barbara’s mantra is “C’est Moi”; This is Me. How telling that this brand, born in 1926 evolved into a full-fledged lingerie company with the introduction of bras and panties in 1972. This balconet bra (30-38, B-E cups) and bikini (XS-XXL) are a very modern declaration of feminine independence.
“I am a Woman
Phenomenally.
Phenomenal Woman,
that’s me.”
~Maya Angelou
I love this–your words, the photos and the reminiscences of feminism as a new concept.
In the early 70’s, some of us burned our bras, others found delight in wearing something lovely under our “dress for success” business wear.
I loved to match my pastel colored bras to panties but my strict business look would never reveal what I wore underneath.
I was also very worried about “toe cleavage” which was pointed out to me in 1976…..toe cleavage!
It wasn’t about the great speech I’d given to my department bank officers, it was about my toe cleavage.
We have come a long way since then…thank God.