Just because it's hidden under that new dress or those nice jeans doesn't mean underwear isn't affected by the latest trends in shape, colour or pop culture. In fact, ready-to-wear trends directly influence bra shapes, especially necklines. So, after square necklines prevailed on the spring/summer runways, lingerie designers expect higher demand for balconnet bras with horizontal necklines, says Philippe Vertriest, design director for Marie Jo. 'Also, we see more tops and dresses with cut-outs in the back,' Vertriest says. 'In the Marie Jo collection, you see that reflected in a couple of bras with dramatic back design features.' This season sees the return of blue - a ready-to-wear trend that started about three seasons ago. 'All shades of skin tones are new and very welcome in lingerie land,' Vertriest says. 'And we see a continuation of the purple and lilac trend, with hot pink as a newcomer.' The 1950s and '80s have also made an impact on lingerie trends this season. The 1950s recall the 'Mad Men' look with narrow waistlines, round curves - often enhanced with shapewear - and an uplifted bust. Triumph's new Sexy Cushion Maximiser has a push-up effect that looks natural and feels soft. The cups are made from technologically advanced memory foam, so they mould to fit individual body contours. The bra also comes in on-trend colours such as pink and blue. The 1980s look, meanwhile, can be seen in the heavy use of lace, updated in a myriad of colourful brights. In addition to its hallmark vivid colours and intricate ornamental lace and embroidery, Simone Perele uses technologically innovative fabrics. On some styles, high-quality lace is knitted using aloe vera threads and micro-encapsulation technology, making it ultra-soft and particularly suitable for sensitive skin with its soothing and hypoallergenic properties. Simone Perele also consulted several plastic surgeons to gain in-depth knowledge of a woman's body and understand the reasons why women seek procedures to change their shape. The result is its Aura collection, which offers seamless cuts for comfort and a second-skin feel, plus removable micro-pearl push-up pads for optimum fit. The Aura bra provides eight different styles including crossed, halter-neck, classic and asymmetrical. The ultra-fine microfiber is also embellished with touches of satin and Swarovski crystal. Vertriest says this season Marie Jo took inspiration from water in all of its guises - its vastness, its flowing movement, its patterns and its rich colour palette. The Splash translated into fresh blues and refreshing pastels, while Deep Treasure incorporates a combination of various patterns seen in coral with colours of green, vivid red and pink. Poetic Freshness features embroidery and lace in shades of pearl, white and nude with patterns that radiate movement and lightness. Aubade, meanwhile, was inspired by the cinema this season. The Hollywood look includes romantic lace, embroidery and sultry satin. Cherry-Cherie features delicate embroidery in a host of colours with a soft denim-look knit and gingham ribbon, while Beaute Sauvage comes in dramatic black, softly knitted with a smocked effect, frills and an embroidered flower between the cups. For men, HOM has released Black Addict in ultra-soft microfibre mesh and bold prints calling to mind ripped jeans in grey tones. It is available as boxer shorts or low-waist hipsters. Diesel has also added summery new shades and prints to its signature slim boxer collections, Herbert and Divine. Women can also get cheeky with the brand's denim-inspired lingerie, complete with rivets, belt loops and a touch of lace.
