Trends for A/W 2015: NYC Lingerie Market Wrap Up

Last month, industry professionals convened in New York for the lingerie market, centered around the biannual Curve trade show.  A host of indie and big-name brands displayed their fall collections for buyers and press alike over a whirlwind three days. I always look forward to the show. It’s a chance to catch up with the designers I’ve known for years and to see how they have evolved their collections yet again. It’s also a chance for me to discover new lines, designers, and trends.

Going into Curve this season, I had one thing in mind. I was looking for something new and bold in lingerie. As much as I love the strappy bra trend, I’m over it and am craving something new, but just as visually appealing. The question I asked myself as I looked out at the rows and rows of booths was, “Now what?”

My hope was that I wouldn’t see more of the same. (When you’ve been attending these shows for about eight years, that’s how it starts to feel!) In considering the show as a whole, I saw a mix. There were pieces reminiscent of things I’ve seen before, but also some unique details, innovative fabric choices, and eye-catching designs.

The most notable trends I found for the fall season fell into three categories: Embellished Cups, Opulent Robes, and Hues of Blue.

Embellished Cups

My favorite trend for fall has popped up in a few places already (like this bra I featured for Valentine’s Day), but is making a strong showing across many more brands now. A number of designers are focusing their detailing on the front of the cup. No longer is this zone restricted to smooth microfiber or basic lace, but cheekier, more attention-grabbing designs.

This mesh bralette by hosiery trend setter, Erica M, is quite the stunner! I’m amazed at the sheer intricacy of the design elements (although not surprised given the beautiful designs of the hosiery and bodywear). Erica M has plans to include more sets like this so keep your eyes open!

My attention was also piqued by this glorious number by Edge o’ Beyond, one of my favorite new brands from last year. This two-toned bra features gorgeous embroidery on the cup - cherubs on lilies. It’s all in the exquisite details!

Else Lingerie also engages in the adorned cup trend with a lovely embellishment on this beautiful slip. One of my favorite pieces, it's not only appealing because of the cups, but also because of the panels of leather strips down the front.

My only complaint about this trend is one driven by jealousy, in that I’ve only seen these embellishments on bralettes, slips, or soft cup styles for the smaller busted set. I and my 32Gs are, as usual, waiting for our turn. In my experience, trends often hit the full bust market a season or two later after the style is tested in a wider market. Here’s hoping there are some in my size soon! And, I'll support by purchasing early.

Opulent Robes

I’ve never really been a robe girl. However, in spotting some amazing styles at the show, I may consider upgrading from the fluffy pink one I only wear in the dead of New York City winter (which means I wore it a lot this year!) to something much more sophisticated.

Dear Bowie is a Canadian-based brand that specializes in robes (although they have some other great loungewear pieces). These luxurious robes, which are available in both long and short styles, are also designed with function in mind with features like stay-put belts and hidden pockets. My favorite design was the hashtag print with the fleur de lis a close second. I see that doing well with the New Orleans crowd!

When I think of robes, I think of Samantha Chang. She nails it every time with her elegant designs. Most impressive is this stunning design of birds on a lake. It looks like a painting! Absolutely incredible.

New brand, Meng, also has a collection of glamorous, show-stopping robes. This collection features a lovely color palette of cream, purples, and blues.

Hues of Blue

Each season also brings color trends across a variety of styles and silhouettes. The color that was most prominently seen in collections was blue.

Australian brand Kisskill has quickly become a favorite for me. The collection included deep blues, navy and sapphire. In addition to loving the color, I adore the silver zipper detailing on the set and my favorite eyelash lace on the robe.

Full bust ladies can rejoice thanks to Claudette. The brand incorporates shades of blue in its bra collection. I love the pairing of the navy and cobalt. Two blues, one stone! However, my favorite is the cobalt being used as a pop of color on this gorgeous rose-colored bra.

Organic loungewear brand, Skin, also incorporated blue into its fall collection. The simple bralette is a versatile staple. However, I love the long line and high waist set which pairs blue with black for an on trend look that could easily be layered and worn outside the home.

Bonus Favorites

Of course, there were a few other pieces I came across at the show that I just had to share with you! While they didn’t necessarily fit within one of the trends, they are worth sharing.

Quite possibly my favorite piece of all is this incredible slip from Else Lingerie. The racerback hints at something athletic although the overall piece is incredibly feminine and sexy, especially the wine color. And the lace is absolutely gorgeous!

I love the extra pop of intrigue provided by the jewelry accessories that can be mixed and matched on the pieces in the Edge O Beyond collection. With a number of options for placement, the look can be reinvented every time!

What are your thoughts on these trends and pieces? Which are you most likely to buy this fall?