'Lingerie' Not just another French term

Originally as in its French roots, Lingerie applies as the categorized term for stylish undergarments for both sexes. Along the time, the term had though evolved into being specifically associated with women's intimate wear. But today again, mens lingerie holds a significant identity as well. Stylish and appealing women's undergarments, popular as lingerie, are designed to be visually attractive and titillating.

Lingerie is not just another French term, but beyond that. The term is atypically pronounced with a faux French articulation as either lonj-er-ee (British) or lonj-er-ay (American). Not a difficult task to rightly pronounce it. Women have worn everything starting from a whalebone contraption with pulleys, to'near nothing' light and silky clothing as intimate wears.

Typically absorbing materials such as Lycra, nylon (nylon tricot), polyester, satin, lace and/or silk, and not applied to functional cotton undergarments, female lingerie are indeed the most alluring pieces having the attention of seasoned designers. The concept of lingerie being visually appealing was a development of the later nineteenth century. And since then, the lingerie industry has seen immense growth, owing to their increasing attractiveness and female infatuation for innerwear fashion.

Predominant Brands and Trends:

Global lingerie market is estimated to be around $30 billion USD, with a projected growth rate of 9% over the next five years. Appeal for lingerie has undergone drastic changes during the past years. Now market is driven by brands that come up with innovative products. Renowned brands such as Calvin Klein, Lejaby, Rosy, Lise Carmel, and Victorias Secrets also dominate the international lingerie market. Designers focus more on creating new patterns with sumptuous lacy bits, satin pieces, enticing teddies, and skimpy thongs. Today besides everything else, the innerwear is in fact also endured as an outerwear. "Show it off" - is the philosophy and designers herald the same by offering lingerie designs that categorize it as a fashion accomplice with straps and lace trim which are deliberately layered and exposed as a slice of the outerwear.

The fact that consumers buy clothes not because they need them is clear in terms of lingerie. Many women buy them because they prefer the style, or because it fits them under certain clothes. Today, the primary marketing issue in the intimate apparels business is the battle taking place between the international brands, and the retailers own private labels. The main concern of both of them is to discover the emotional wants and choice of their consumers. Though market for the product has an ever increasing demand; globally, much potential lies in Western Europe and North America which constitute 65% of the global lingerie market. Asian countries like India and China are emerging as prospective markets attracting international brands. Here, merchandise will be sold in more quantities at a cheaper price.

Though the apparel has undergone many changes, the purpose of lingerie has not changed - women still want to look sexy. Today's intimate apparels look modish and express an erotic panache. It is the most beautiful, luxurious, and feminine form of clothing worn intimately and is appreciated worldwide for its practicality and comfort.