Style Analysis: Lace High-Waisted Knickers

I have always loved a high-waisted knicker. The aesthetic of this garment is a nod to a bygone era of fashion. That, combined with its functional purpose, gives me two reasons to enjoy this classic undergarment.

Traditionally, a high-waisted knicker is meant to smooth the lower tummy area to give a sleek line under clothing. Recently, however, I've noticed an array of gorgeous knickers with a different purpose - for visual style rather than shaping.

To illustrate, the latest collection from I.D Sarrieri took my breath away -- most especially the lace briefs show above. These knickers perfectly showcase the Chantilly lace, especially through incorporating the scallop edge of the lace along the waist. While the seaming provides a strong architectural element, the back coverage is not as full as it usually is with high-waisted styles, and shows off your derrière. This is not a knicker for control, but rather for visual style.

Firm vs. Soft High Waisted Knickers

Depending on the desired use for your high-waisted knickers, you may prefer a firm or soft "feel." Firm high-waisted knickers control the midriff  and give a smoother appearance under clothing (i.e. shapewear). The ideal lining fabric for firm knickers is powermesh.

Powermesh, which you may have heard of before, looks like regular mesh, but has four-way stretch fabric for strength and resilience. This material is available in different weights and is often used for shapewear. If powermesh lines the front of the knicker, it's meant is to be a control garment. If the knicker does not have power mesh, it's most likely a high-waisted pant for aesthetic purposes.

Changing Function of the High-Waisted Knicker

Naturally, as fashions change, so do undergarments. Origins of the high-waisted knicker can be traced back to 1947 with the launch of Christian Dior's 'New Look'.  At this time and into the 1950's there was a requirement for firm undergarments to accompany the fashions of the time and give the "right" look. Thus waist cinchers, girdles, and corselettes came into style.

Nowdays, even with so many fashion collections and different seasonal looks, there still continues to be a love for high-waisted knickers, and many different brands offer their own individual versions of this style.

The Beauty of Lace Knickers

Many people enjoy wearing lace because of the way it makes them feel. The interplay of light and shade within lace is beautiful and utterly unique to that fabric. There is both elegance and an air of mystery to wearing lace. Each shape and line, positive and negative space...all planned out to best be displayed when worn. Lace is an art unto itself.

For lace knickers to be comfortable, the lace must be soft to the touch. If possible, feel the lace against your skin by trying on before you buy. If buying online, feel free to ask about the quality of the lace outright.

I usually look for styles that have lace at the front and soft mesh or some other flexible material at the back, as those are most comfortable to me. If the lace is rigid the back of the knicker should be elastic so that it can stretch to accommodate your hips for comfort.

What are your opinions on high-waisted knickers? Do you have a favorite brand or style?

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