Though menswear-inspired items and boyfriend-style seem to have wooed the fashion world into a state of androgyny, a few designers have looked, instead, to the ultrafeminine for inspiration. Yes, we’re talking about lingerie — but not the overtly sexy or the cloyingly fussy stuff. Givenchy’s Riccardo Tisci and Rue du Mail’s Martine Sitbon are among the designers who have turned out decidedly daytime looks with a subtle nod to nighttime, putting a fresh spin on the feminine mystique.
Simple and sweet, H&M’s blush-hued blouse adds a ladylike softness to the masculine vibe of a cozy grandpa cardigan or a structured blazer. $40 at H&M stores.
For daytime, try Pencey’s Floating Lace blouse over a silk tank with tailored trousers; for night, opt for a “Dangerous Liaisons”-worthy ensemble by wearing it over a filmy slipdress. $128 at Anthropologie.com.
When it comes to the ménage à trois of satin, lace and bows, the trio is usually best kept under wraps. But the spotlight-ready pumps by Nina combine all three for an understated, elegant effect. “Electro” satin sandal, $89 at Piperlime.com.
MAC’s limited edition “Baroque Boudoir” makeup collection presents face-flattering colors in dramatic, silk-screened packaging to convey the sumptuous feel of an old-world dressing table. Lipstick and gloss, $22 each at MAC stores and www.maccosmetics.com.
Inspired by the delicacy of lingerie, Stella McCartney has expanded her coterie of fragrances with Stella Nude, a Moroccan rose-based scent packaged in a vintage-inspired bottle. Freshen a dresser drawer with Linen Mist, a light formula for spritzing over intimates. $59 for 4.2 ounces at Sephora stores and Sephora.com.