Athleisure and comfort: key innerwear trends in 2017

Athleisure and comfort are likely to be key trends in innerwear for 2017. Athleisure, that falls between obvious sportswear and streetwear/leisure, will continue to influence lingerie wardrobes in terms of colours, cuts and technical details in the new year. But, irrespective of the inspiration, comfort has always been and will remain the bottomline.

The delicates in the wardrobe of a woman have evolved to an extent that they can be bold and functional enough to be worn as outerwear. As a result, the lingerie market is exploding with options for the modern woman.
 
“We will see lingerie that is more innovative and experimental, with new shapes and materials,” said Jennifer Kapasi, head of operations, Triumph International (India). “Soft hues, delicate floral lace combined with superior craftsmanship will be in demand. The focus will be in on fabrics that stimulate the senses, featuring lace as a primary component.”

With the Rio Summer Olympics setting the stage for 2017, a lot of new designs, cuts and style will be seen in the upcoming season. “However, whatever may be the theme and inspiration for the next season, the bottomline is comfort,” said Rohit Gupta, general manager, Rupa Softline. According to him, “the industry is going back to simple and functional designs, as they ensure maximum comfort.”
 
Easy-to-wear styles including bralettes and comfortable lounge bras for the casual lifestyle will be in, predicted Dora Lau, CEO of Curvy Couture.

“I believe we will see active cross-over styling influences, sporty bra styling for day to evening activities from the gym to work to lounging around. The meant-to-be-seen trend continues and influences bold, strappy and lace details on innerwear garments.”
 
Crochet will see a comeback in modern contemporary styles embodying the spirit of summer, forecasts Smita Murarka, head-Marketing & e-commerce, Amante. According to her, “front open bras with lace T-backs are going to be a big rage.”