I adore all things lingerie but have a special place in my heart (and wallet to be honest) for those items with a retro glam feel. So I thought I would walk all of you lovely readers through some of my favorite independent designers on Etsy. There is a wealth of talent and style that comes handmade and to your exact contours and specifications. What could be more heavenly? Keeping in mind that I could blog for days on end about this subject I have elected to break up the posting in to some more bite size pieces to allow us to swoon appropriately over each designer.
On the Inside, a designer from Asheville North Carolina. Her gorgeous designs are meant to be both sexy and comfortable, something that isn’t always a priority in lingerie. This beautiful camisole and panty set with detachable garters evokes a Marilyn Monroe-esque era of simple glamour and playful separates. The sheer striped fabric leaves plenty to the imagination while the delicate black leg ruffles play up the luxury of this set.
The tie top detail on the back of these panties is both unexpected and practical allowing you to custom fit the panties. Everything in her shop is made to order which means that those with us that are different sizes top and bottom or with different sized breasts can finally find stunning lingerie that will fit like a dream. She is willing to switch up fabrics and styles to suit your whims, something that pre-fab womens lingerie can’t boast.
Toad Lillie aims to wrap you up in luxurious silks, satins and bows. Her “Tie One On” collection features large over the top bows and decadent silks and satins that evoke a sense of celebration. What better way to celebrate your body than with silky nude and black lingerie designed with comforting enclosed waist bands and fetching details like the elegant satin ribbon adorning the garters front and back?
This stunning silver silk bralette has a bit of stretch to it that will increase your comfort allowing you to relax into the fit. She has a matching pair of full backed, ruffled- bottom panties to complete the set and they are posted under the Icing on the Cake collection in her shop on Etsy. The ruffles lure the eyes to your decolletage and the hands to the sweetly soft velvet bow at the center. The collection comes in a range of colors that can all be mixed and matched together.
Defining herself as the anti Victoria’s Secret, ClareBare designs her lingerie with a deliberate play between innocence and edgy. So whether you see yourself as sweetly innocent or mischievously naughty, these styles will let you play both sides. These decadent satin boyshort panties with their cheeky black leg ruffles and applique hearts look as cozy with their bamboo lining as they are sexy. Made from vintage slip material, every one will be different affording you the knowledge that you limited edition garments that can’t be found at your local mass market lingerie store.
ClareBare designs the pieces to showcase the feminine form at its best. The lingerie is minimalist and defined by unexpected details such as small bows on otherwise industrial-like garters as in the Suspender Cage Garter Belt. This item is simplistic in construction with dramatic black lines evoking a style reminiscent of the fabulous 30′s. Made to measure, this garter belt will fit you like a glove and according to ClareBare become “almost invisible underneath clothing.”
If you like what you see pop on over and let the lovely designers of Etsy know, they will appreciate the feedback. After all they are trying to answer the demands that the big retailers aren’t and for that I am eternally grateful. I will continue this theme next week so keep your eyes peeled for more decadent handmade lingerie. For a useful glossary on lingerie types designs visit http://www.swimwearandlingerie.com
Cheers,
Maggie








I really adore the new style of Etsy Designers. They really made a fabulous lingerie. As a matter of fact I like the design of ClareBare and I agree that these design can really compete on the victoria’s secrets designs.
Hi Demylim,
I don’t think they compete with Victoria’s Secret. I think they blow her out of the water!
Their designs are so fresh and new and don’t have that stale cheese-slice, over-processed style and feel.
I just wish more people knew how much more the get for their money when they buy bespoke items, custom made to fit. It makes SUCH a difference.
Have you ordered from Etsy yet?
Maggie
Thanks for the write up Maggie! It’s so exciting to see the ever growing lingerie world at Etsy! xoxo
Laurie
Hi Laurie,
Toad Lillie is AMAZING and I can’t believe how much you have grown in just over a year! WOW! Congratulations on such a wonderful success. I’m really happy for you!
Maggie
Wow they’re really cute pants with the tie back! I’m sure they’re not for everyday wear but for adding that something special to your day is going to make them a winner!
I do love the smart look of the On the Inside Morning Glory Panties though! They’re really fab and I can see them being practical enough to wear fairly often!
You’ve found some lovely underwear makers there!
They are pretty awesome aren’t they? I think you could probably get away with the tie back pants under a dress or skirt, perhaps not trousers.
I tend to plan my outfits around my lingerie and not the other way around! I could probably find a way to make them work for the every day. I have a firm policy on NOT saving lingerie for a rainy day. It needs to be worn daily and enjoyed. Otherwise it gets lonely in the drawer.
Maggie