By ELLEN LEWIS
I studied French diligently in school with big plans. I wanted to work at the United Nations and French is one of the 6 official UN languages. So when my merchandising career began (another story for another time) I questioned the viability of my education. You don’t hear that much French in New York’s garment district. But as my retail path veered into Intimate Apparel, I realized that I was wrong. French … Read More
Several years ago I had the privilege of working for a while with the eponymous NYC lingerie shop, La Petite Coquette. This merchandising gem is a brand within itself, an enticing enclave of exquisite underpinnings and essential underwear that epitomizes the French intimates DNA. It does not matter that the store carries many other labels from around the globe; the “je ne sais quoi” mystique is clarified in every nook and cranny of this sensual … Read More
Who is the Aubade Bride? What would you imagine? A luxury wedding gown from Cymbeline, Paris at sunset, a French garden, a mystery veiled in sensuality . Champagne, laughter and Lessons in Seduction. And don’t forget to cut the cake.
As a teenager, my father promised me a trip to France if I proved the seriousness of my intent to learn the language. Meeting his expectations, off I went with the Experiment in International Living to immerse myself in the French lifestyle and discovered a culture inexplicably entwined with feminine mystique. I learned my lessons well. My conservative parents’ values were a bit jarred, however, when I returned to the States decked out in a … Read More
By ELLEN LEWIS
The synergy between the bridal and lingerie industries has always fascinated me. It’s not about the wedding. It’s all about the artistry, the cherished memories unique to these tableaux. Exquisite laces, delicate embroideries, luxurious fabrics, treasured details, pearls, crystals, floral motifs are all assembled in an enchanting conclave of beauty. Basking on this assortment, one can easily grasp how a woman’s sense of self would be enhanced by wearing any piece. I … Read More
By ELLEN LEWIS
Without a doubt, the foundations business is a force at the Curve NY show. It is a showcase of practical, functional, solution based, and fashionable bras and panties. However the prevalence of sleepwear and loungewear, traditional, eclectic, elegant and commercial can not be ignored. There was a plethora of pajamas, lounge pieces and soft support styles all focused on comfort first.
Adding to this mix is the networking element, the extraordinary … Read More
By ELLEN LEWIS
Aubade
If I were to say just one word about the Salon International de la Lingerie, it would be Bodysuits. But of course, there were a few other insights that emerged as I walked the show and touched base at Interfilière. Exquisite Embroideries, Creative Cutouts, Light Laces, Sparkle and Shine, and Compelling Colors. I was intrigued by the abundance of Swimwear at the Fall show, particularly crossover styles. And of course, I … Read More
