Other details include hearts, beads, sequins and gold threads—all of which signal a richer, more sumptuous holiday season

   Past collections in black give way to red—in rich or bright red, or cerise; materials include lace, satin and chiffon; while lingerie items are decorated in glitter and gloss, satin and velvet ribbons and patterns. Other details include hearts, beads, sequins and gold threads—all of which signal a richer, more sumptuous holiday season.
   Colours accompanying red are black and gold.
   Adding to the sexiness are low-cut hot pants and the purposeful revealing of lingerie with halter-neck bras that are visible at the neck or shoulders. It’s not quite at the idea of underwear as outerwear, but the suggestion comes close. If you’re wearing racy red lingerie, then it’s time to show it. Therefore, there are frills around the bust and hems.
   In addition, the designs are meant to give the figure a boost: push-ups and balconettes, all with the aim of frivolity and playfulness—and added sexiness.
   Similarly, tangas and briefs have frills or ties at the side.
   Vest and teddies complete the range, with thin straps, focusing attention not on the straps but the bust.
   The range is apparently inspired by 1930s Hollywood glamour. The immediate glamour figure that springs to mind is Marlene Dietrich and films such as Shanghai Express. While Dietrich has not been mentioned at all by H&M, 2003 has been filled with reminders of the German actress, including a major exhibition in Paris, where a square in the 16th arrondissement was named after her in June.
   Although the exhibition took place well after this line was planned, there may be an emerging trend which began for spring–summer 2002 at La Perla and is moving to other market segments this holiday season. As with outerwear, we may see brighter lingerie to come. •

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