The Secret Lives of the Lingerie Ladies.

There’s something about lingerie. A drawer full of silky underwear adds sparkle to the greyest day. Likewise, the secret knowledge that you’re wearing something slinky brings that same sparkle to your eye, whether you’re wearing jeans or a business suit. They say, that beauty is in the eye of the beholder. But this isn’t strictly true in the case of lingerie; it’s often the case that the beauty is in the mind of the wearer. Whilst others might guess what lies beneath, there’s a pleasure in the fact that no one else knows – unless, of course, you choose to share…

With the recent revival of Burlesque (or though some would argue that it never really went away) there’s never been a better time to indulge in draping your frame in the most seductive lingerie. Glamour is back.

Like wearing your favourite lingerie to work, the joy of burlesque comes not from what is seen, but rather from what is suggested. The skill lies in a certain glint of the eye, a secret smile, a wiggle of the hips when you think that no one is watching – or, perhaps, because you know that they are. Whilst there has always been an element of the risqué and saucy about Burlesque, it’s current popularity has seen it lose its sleazy edge. It’s now OK to be sexy, and indeed, a bit risqué and saucy, without feeling like a cheap extra in a strip club.

Whilst full corsets, feathers and nipple tassels might not be for everyone, burlesque is, as much as anything else, an attitude and a state of mind. With the right attitude, every bedroom can transform into a boudoir and every girl becomes a showgirl. Whether you prefer virginal white lace or racy red and black satin there’s a certain irresistible ‘something’ that guarantees to put a spring in your step when putting on underwear brings a smile to your lips.

Perhaps the rise and rise of burlesque in recent years might simply be a reaction to ‘ladette’ culture. After all, who wants to imitate the worst in male behaviour when there’s so much more fun to be had in celebrating the feminine? Nowadays, it doesn’t take a fool to recognise that rather than being confronted with an eyeful of alco-pop fuelled bare chest, it’s more appealing, and far classier, to suggest a hint of silk or satin and the promise of what may lie beyond...

Stepping into luxurious underwear by day, or night, needn’t be for anyone else. First and foremost it should be a ‘me, me, me’ event. True beauty comes from within, and there’s no better way to connect your inner beauty with the outside world than the feeing of wearing something that you love, close to your skin. Of course, if you choose to share this with a certain someone, then let the fun begin!

So, perhaps it’s time to throwaway all your washday-grey undies and bring your inner diva out play.

Sarah Maple used dealtime.co.uk and uk.shopping.com to find the best prices for lingerie online.