This season’s nod to inner-wear worn on the outside can work wonders on freeing your inner goddess. Bustiers and lace underpinnings walking the streets of NYC — paired with a chic trouser — have never looked hotter. The feeling and look of something so soft and delicate combined with an edge of menswear has combustible results.

John Galliano at Dior channeled Lauren Bacall from her film noir whodunits as Humphrey Bogart’s leading femme fatale, though the only possible way to wear expensive lacy underpinnings (unless you are Sienna Miller on the red carpet or Kate Moss, who can get away with anything and everything) is to treat them for what they are: lingerie so pretty it deserves to peek out from under a spectacular structured jacket and thigh-split skirt.

As for the influence on interiors?? This Antoinette Sofa from Urban Outfitters (now out of stock) is the perfect combo of gender-fab. The curves are truly womanly, but the fabric (black herringbone) is a man’s suiting material. Love it!

But this Tillary sofa now available at West Elm comes in a blue, beige or brown herringbone and is mod, chic and masculine. Pair it with a soft pillow (as shown here) adding a feminine touch.

Last 5 posts by Kimberly Synnott

• Take One Thing Off - November 22nd, 2010
• Slap Some Bling on It - June 18th, 2010
• Wash Your Unmentionables... And Your Slipcovers - May 18th, 2010
• If the Fashion Fits, Sit On It - May 17th, 2010

Author: Kimberly Synnott

Kimberly Synnott is a fashion and beauty expert who's been working in the industry for over ten years. She styles celebrities for television, film and appearances in addition to her thriving image consulting business. While producing fashion trade shows across the United States, Kimberly successfully dabbled in three of her own t-shirt lines: "em", “tee amo" and “kuki tees”. She's passionate about involving all the senses in the styling process and believes that fashion has no boundaries.

Kimberly Synnott has written 5 articles for us.