Author(s): Anna Cryer

Fashion & Textiles

'Lingerie is what comes nearest to a woman's heart and naturally it gives her more real and intimate satisfaction than any other part of her wardrobe.' - Vogue, 1918

Images of lingerie have been showcased in British Vogue since its launch in 1916. They demonstrate more than just changing fashion; they serve as a commentary on ideas of propriety, the progress of female emancipation and technological advancements as well as ever-changing ideals of the female silhouette and concepts of beauty.

Divided into categories of Action, Pretty, Curvy and Boudoir, Vogue Essentials: Lingerie explores the evolution of lingerie over the 100 years of Vogue's history, commenting on changing fashions, influence on popular culture, the psychology of lingerie and its role as a liberator, accompanied by more than 100 images from the British Vogue archive.

Published simultaneously with Vogue Essentials: Heels. This irresistible series from Conran Octopus and British Vogue explores the key pieces in a stylish woman's wardrobe and features photographs from Vogue's peerless archive of more than a million pictures.