Women's underwear goes way beyond bras and panties, as a negligee for sleeping would also be placed in this category. But through the years, the transformation of Women's underwear has been tremendous.
From the early bodice, corsets and corsage, bloomers, camisole, shorts, pantyhose, drawers, etc, the journey has been tremendous in sheer diversity and in size. Today we hear terms like babydoll, cheeky, French maid, G-string, thong, etc, all applicable to the women's underwear meant to reveal the hidden assets through sheer negligee.
The lingerie market today for women's underwear is booming, even though the product or item itself is shrinking in size. The women's underwear market comprises of bras of every conceivable type, be they bandeau, cupless, lifters, sports, nursing, underwire, or even a wonderbra. These can be comfortable while making the woman look big or small, as per choice.
There are different types based on the individual need of the consumer. Some companies focus on bra and panties style and other focus on comfort. Price can also be measurement of the different types of products. There is much to choose from.
Similarly, just saying panties will not suffice. The women's underwear in this section too needs to be specified as to bikini, control briefs, girdle panties, tap-pants, thongs, g-strings, etc. Women's underwear also comprises of other accessories, such as garters, pantyhose, full nylon stockings, etc.
This booming market in women's underwear has grown to an astounding billion market with both branded and unbranded variety. The most popular is undoubtedly 'Victoria's Secret' in the women's underwear segment, though there are many different players in all parts of the world.
Other popular names in the women's underwear section are Aarie, Bravissimo, Chantelle, Fruit of the Loom, Gerbe, Hanes, Jockey, Maidenform, Passport, Triumph, Ultimo, Valisere. These are just some of the names doing the rounds, otherwise the women's underwear market is also in the narrow by-lanes of the cities, where no man dare venture.
The underwear market is partially immune to the financial market. The high-end merchandise can be more affected, due to consumer spending decreases. The more economical bras and panties have a longer staying power due to the need to have undergarments.
As the undergarment industry goes through its constant fluctuations the changes will continue. In the past there have been more items to buy per person but today the bra and panty products are smaller but have risen in cost, compared to other clothing.
