Nude colours and pastels like rose, bleu, peach or violet have a major role in underwear design this spring. The Powder Shades are more innocent but have a seductive side as well. Elle Macpherson, whose designs are mainly in discreet colours, plays with the untouchable image white and pastel lingerie has. The former model is one of a few in the celebrity designer club along with Kylie Minogue (Love Kylie) and Jennifer Lopez (JLO Lingerie).

Prints are also gaining popularity, particularly with matching sets. As you’d expect for spring floral motifs rule in print and embroidery, along with Liberty prints, polka dots and candy stripes. In keeping with the trends on the catwalk there’s also a touch of romance with delicate floral lace trims, broderie anglaise and frills.

Elsewhere, the 40s pin-up is influential this season with deep-sided knickers, vintage look fabrics and corsetry details in coral, peach and cream. Boudoir style continues to inspire; think burlesque dancer rather than porn star. There’s the old lingerie favourite Black and Red Lace. The transparent parts emphasize the seductive appeal while the combination with satin gives the look a certain tactile quality.

Shapes, meanwhile, focus on Balconette and plunge in the bra department combined with full knickers or shorts. While g-strings are still available it is noticeable that fuller brief styles have taken over along with a rising popularity of hipster briefs which leave no telltale VPL.

If you want to find out more about the next seasons lingerie trends and brands why not visit the biannual lingerie show Intimate London Body & Beach 2007, which will take place 29 – 31 July at Olympia, Exhibition Centre (National Hall). There will be swim and beachwear trends 2008 along with selected intimate apparel and legwear labels as well as a range of talks and seminars by business professionals. www.intimate-london.com

By Christa Catharina Muller