I wasn’t really sure what to expect, sure I like underwear but a catwalk show dedicated to it? Turns out the Lingerie Collective’s presentation in the heart of London’s Fashion Week was a real head turner. I had a great night, more so for me because it took the female body back to the basics and I’m all for flattery.  It reminded me how important it is to feel comfortable in your clothes starting with your underwear. It doesn’t matter if anybody sees it or not, first and foremost it’s about how you feel when you’re wearing it; confident and sexy? or cute and cuddly? Lingerie emphasises body lines and accentuates curves in all the right places to leave a woman feeling, well.. ALL woman.

The collective showcased the work of four designers at the Mint Leaf in Mayfair last week. It was a night filled with beautiful women, lots of F Vodka, music and even more ‘ahhs’ and ‘woohs’. Since it was presented by Lara Accison for Fashion TV, backstage was manic. Something you would probably see in one of those old burlesque films – lots of ladies walking around in lingerie getting their hair and makeup done.

First up was Yes Master. Egor’s collection is already well established in the underwear department and can be found at Asos.com as well as Urban Outfitters stores around the UK. The designer said it was based on “all things witches, like potions, stars and the colour black.” This was noticeable in the dark night ensembles with neck braces and starry night prints. Egor used rich colours including a fuchsia pink for the entrance leaving the crowd roaring for more.

Kriss Soonik took a different approach. His designs featured lots of lace and warm colours for Autumn/ Winter including oranges and hues of blues.  Satin pieces were teamed with black velvet night gowns that were left open to flow softly. These elegant pieces were teamed with thigh high stockings for utter sex appeal.

Marlies Dekkers went for burlesque style with comfort. We saw corset patterned underwear in a champagne pink with slender single straps at the back for support – a total man teaser. A couple of focal points included bright red sets and full cupping for a curvaceous finish.

Kelly, who co-founded the shop, designed the final collection, Modern Courtesan, which was probably my favourite of the night. The partially transparent silk tunics were seductive yet extremely classy.  They tied softly at the neck which felt very day turned night.  It went on to be playful with whips, sailor style night dresses and tassels.

It always helps when the venue is catwalk friendly and Mint Leaf was built for models to weave in and out of sections, which is always flattering in a lingerie show.

The manager Gerard, who helped build the restaurant said it was a great show, “It’s good fun having new collections showcased here, we have Satya Paul nearly every year. Our new lounge is a popular place for shows at the moment as our guests love fashion shows. ”

I will definitely be attending some more of these kind of shows, lady power! The good news is there is a shape for everyone out there.

These collections and many more will be at the Lingerie Collective boutique on Ganton Street just by Carnaby Street. Check out their website: www.thelingeriecollective.com. All photos were taken by Graham Reading www.grahamreading.com.

By Rashmi Ray