Satin underwear – what is it and who wears it?
Satin is the name used to describe a satin weave using filament fibres such as silk and it was first woven in the middle ages although variations had been around since Greek and Roman times. It was the name given to the more lustrous versions of samite, a luxurious and heavy silk material which was quite common in medieval Asia. In fact, its name comes from the ancient Chinese port of Zaitun where it was traded by Arabian merchants. Satin is typified by a glossy or silky appearance and is quite smooth and sensual to the touch – hence its desirability in the manufacture of many types of garment.
Satin is a delight to wear and would make any woman feel special and luxurious. Satin lingerie oozes charm and femininity and it almost flows over the body, clinging to every curve and accentuating feminine features. It is not surprising that satin underwear is one of the most common types to be available today due to its suppleness and the comfort it gives to the wearer. The feel of such a soft forgiving fabric next to the skin is quite a sensual experience and it will make every woman look and feel beautiful. Satin or silk is often the material of choice for women’s camisoles or slips as it provides a soft and silky layer between a woman’s soft and silky skin and the comparative roughness of her outer clothes.
Most manufacturers and designers have a satin collection within their range of garments as they understand the versatility of the fabric, and it’s not just women who can enjoy the luxury of this material. Satin underwear for men is available which can help a man feel comfortable through the day under his business suit, but also help him feel more exciting and sensual in the bedroom. Satin underwear for men is sophisticated and sensuous and available in a wide range of sexy and comfortable styles. One should always be careful though, as some versions of satin can be difficult to care for so always read the garment care labels. Some silk satins require careful hand-washing and ironing while still damp but good quality silk is often machine washable. Nowadays, satin fabrics can be made from many fibres including easy-care polyester.
In recent years some designers have begun to make satin lingerie items as outerwear – a term the French label dessous-dessous (and of course, lingerie itself is a French word meaning underwear for either gender). In the English language the word “lingerie” describes garments which may be erotic and are almost always visually appealing. Satin is ideal for this as the silky feel lends itself to feelings of luxury, sensuality and it is of course very sexy. If you want to make your partner feel special and loved, then satin underwear and lingerie make an ideal present. and of course, if you’re about to get married it makes ideal bridal underwear.
Find out more about the development of fine lingerie with the The satin bra – a history lesson.