Dear Melissa,

Sure, I know you don't get something for nothing, but what to do when the purse strings are tight? Can you be into underwear on a budget, or is all the good stuff an affair to save for?

x
Cash Strapped

Dear Cash Strapped,


It would blow most people’s minds to know that designer lingerie from Europe can cost you in the thousands of dollars for only a couple of exquisite sets. But let’s face it, it’s not exactly for everyone!  The short answer to this question, is that just like designer fashion, designer lingerie is more expensive than mass market brands. ThisS usually comes down to the choice of fabrics, the detailing, whether it is hand-made, who designed it, where it is from, and so on.

The good news is, that these days, beautiful lingerie is available on any budget and if you have a keen eye, you can cherry pick the most divine pieces from any collection. The last two seasons have exploded with savvy new Australian labels, with most in the affordable price bracket. From the designers spreading their lingerie wings like WILLOW, and now Sass & Bide following suit (paired up with Loveable), designer lingerie is more accessible than ever before.

Not to be outdone by the big names, little boutique labels are producing ever-so-gorgeous pieces to suit any budget. Sydney rock label Lucky Locket makes very affordable lingerie with themes inspired by tattoo-mused art and its intricate embroideries, with a high-end, bespoke aesthetic. Very rock’n roll and yet fun and playful with her signature ‘Lucky’ tie sides ($55 - or easy access, I fondly call them!) and fishnet soft cup bras ($65), gives you an edgy look, while still being easy on the purse.

From across the seas, ‘Mimi Holiday’ has cute as a button basic balconettes in heart printed chiffons and taking notes from her big sis Damaris, mini Brazilian-cut knickers with an adorable tied up bow to frame the derrière.

Another alternative if you’re a lingerie fiend on a budget, is mixing it up a bit. Like fashion, you can save up for a couple of special designer pieces and mix with a bargain find of some cute little French knickers to put your own spin on it – without breaking the bank.

At the end of the day it is about what makes you happy and where lingerie sits on your priority and financial scale! The feeling of exquisite silk satin against your skin, the bespoke fit and diversities in style, fabrics and delectable trims will certainly add to the jour de vivre of the lingerie wearing experience, not to mention the shopping experience! 

If you do decide to splurge and spoil yourself with some delicate finery – no doubt you and your special someone will be swooning! Even if only for special occasions, I firmly believe every modern woman should treat herself to a special lingerie piece at least once per season. 

… But then, I am a lingerie fiend, and my credit card has suffered over the years as a result – so perhaps I’m being a little biased here!

x Melissa Gallagher

On the web: www.dirtyprettythings.com.au