Paris Undressed: The Secrets of French Lingerie

I have always loved lingerie and thanks to this book, I definitely have a much deeper appreciation for it. A few weeks ago I finally splurged on lingerie of excellent quality to wear every day, not just for "special occasions" and it's amazing how different I feel about myself. Then I decided to search for a book about lingerie and I found this. Kathryn Kemp-Griffin teaches you everything about lingerie from its history, to the anatomy of a bra, the types of fabrics and even the history of the fabrics themselves, and why it is important that we ladies wear beautiful, quality lingerie every day of our lives. I was one of those cotton underwear types because "they are so comfortable!" I also felt I wasn't deserving of wearing something so sensual and luxurious. Not anymore. I've been learning that when you spend money on good quality, it will be comfortable. We all deserve to feel beautiful about ourselves as well, instead of waiting for when we lose a few pounds or have a special occasion. Save up some money, seek out a reputable lingerie boutique near you that has a good bra fitter, and do yourself a favor a go shopping. It will change your whole mindset and attitude about lingerie and yourself.

Very funny, witty, fascinatingly informative, and I have been "around underwear" (can't call it "lingerie" when purchased at Walmart) all my very long life. Who KNEW that Catherine de Medici "invented" panties, of a sort, although it did take several centuries for them to catch the popular imagination. And buying habits. Included is even a real PATTERN for making panties, for those who sew - I wish I could! -- I think it would be fun to make a pair of panties in some fabulous vintage fabric, or some gossamer webbing -- as you wish! I had no idea what to expect when I bought the book, but I'm very glad I did, and only wish I had had this book, this information, when I was 16. I imagine my life would have been at least a LITTLE more fun -- and so would my husband's……..

A fun read! I particularly enjoyed the historical parts, especially about lace (very interesting!). The book is informative but the writing style really reaches out to the reader and feels collaborative. A pleasant, easy, and fun read.

Excellent!

I had to put it down after a few pages. It was so over the top and saccharine I couldn’t take it.I live in Paris (proper Paris, not the suburbs). I’m American. I teach English to young French children. I go into French people’s homes. I see what their children eat (chicken nuggets and French fries at their fancy private schools by the way, just like Anglo children). I sometimes see their laundry drying on the drying racks, or waiting for their maids to fold and put away. French women wear beautiful lingerie? No, not always. They wear normal underwear just like the rest of us. Even worse, they buy it from French Victoria’s Secret (Etam) or French Target (Monoprix). Quelle horror!I don’t know where Madame Annabelle existed 30 years ago, but she probably doesn’t exist anymore. Not unless you can afford 80€+ for a bra and 60€+ for panties and that’s at Princess Tam Tam which is slightly a step above Etam. Chantelle, Aubade and Simone Pérèle? Even pricier. Maybe you’ll get lucky and get a good set in a sale at Galleries Lafayette during Soldes. But buying enough to be able to wear it everyday? Good luck.I’ve lived in 16 arrondissements (out of 20) in Paris over the course of 6 years. Do not believe everything in these whimsical books. Adult fairytales about a magical city where everything smells like bread (and dog poop and urine and car fumes) and there’s a magical glow (it’s rainy and grey most of the year, with bipolar changes in sunlight every hour), and everyone spends the day sitting in cafes (most Parisians work 9-8). The only people who have this kind of fantasy life are rich North Americans (or rich Parisians) who can afford to spend their days not needing a job to give them money.And lingerie? Not even a French word. Not used normally in France. But this book will go on and on about fabrics and shapes so I guess if you’re a budding lingerie designer you probably need this.

This book is not incredibly insightful, it is funny, engaging and brilliantly written to make bras an enjoyable topic. The French secrets are the cherry on-top. The advice is spectacular yet simple and straight forward. The book hooks you in instantly. Every woman should read this book and i especially encourage those in their early 20s or young-adults.The book is is rich in knowledge , more than you will get over youtube tutorials . Please grab a copy and not one do something for your back and breasts but also your confidence.

Loved it! Inspirational and refreshing look on lingerie making and wearing it!

Excellent little book. Interesting and informative. Really makes you think. Highly recommended to ladies of all ages!