Lingerie is so much more than underwear. It’s a form of self-expression and a centrepiece of fashion that must respond to the constant pulse of societal change and the fluidity of styles, politics, and pop culture.
Because of its very nature, lingerie can turn a simple fashion moment into something iconic. There’s nothing quite like a jaw-dropping corset, suspender, or bra and knicker set to turn heads and start conversations, now is there?
Let’s explore the intoxicating world of iconic lingerie moments and see how celebrities play a starring role in influencing lingerie and corset trends today. Check out our favourite lingerie moments from the 60s up to now!
Leaving a Mark on Lingerie History
Sophia Loren in The Millionairess (1960)
In 1960, Sophia Loren mesmerised audiences in the film "The Millionairess." She wore a black corset with suspenders and stockings and paired it with white gloves, a pearl necklace, and a large sun hat – the epitome of elegance.
Why is it iconic?: It’s the kind of moment that still sizzles, even 60 years later!
See the look: https://m.imdb.com/title/tt0054086/mediaviewer
Grace Jones x Issey Miyake (1981)
While performing on stage in London in October 1981, Grace Jones donned a bronze, plexiglass bustier made by designer Issey Mikaye which hugged her figure in the best possible way. She later stated that she wears his clothes “every day to this day” in her 2015 autobiography, “I’ll Never Write My Memoirs”.
Why is it iconic?: It paved the way for a new era of bold, boundary-breaking fashion.
See the look: https://assets.vogue.com/photos/5afee430f1eab511c6071464
Madonna’s Blonde Ambition Tour (1990)
During her 1990 Blonde Ambition tour, Madonna sent shockwaves through the fashion world when she wore a conical-breasted corset designed by Jean-Paul Gaultier which she revealed from beneath a masculine pinstripe suit.
Why is it iconic?: It solidified the corset as a symbol of rebellious fashion.
See the look: https://assets.vogue.com/photos/5e9a3583bdb99a0008102546
Salma Hayek in From Dusk Til Dawn (1996)
In the film "From Dusk Till Dawn," Salma Hayek set hearts racing performing a sultry striptease in a maroon lingerie set with gold detailing, arm cuffs and… a huge yellow python!
Why is it iconic?: It set the stage for one of the first Latina actresses to establish a successful film career in Hollywood.
See the look: https://m.imdb.com/title/tt0116367/mediaviewer/rm1893197569
Sarah Michelle Gellar in Cruel Intentions (1999)
Sarah Michelle Gellar's on-screen seduction as Kathryn in Cruel Intentions was made even better by a black waspie worn over a contrasting camisole vest from costume designer Denise Wingate. This was in reference to the original novel’s Rococo fashion influence.
Why is it iconic?: It transformed a historical aesthetic into a modern fashion statement.
See the look: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0139134/mediaviewer/rm3357402112
Angelina Jolie in Mr. & Mrs. Smith (2005)
The daring strapless corset dress worn by Angelina Jolie in "Mr. & Mrs. Smith" was the perfect representation of her complex character. She wowed audiences with a cinched-in waist, black latex and pretty pink bows.
Why is it iconic?: It’s the perfect fusion of sensuality and strength.
See the look: https://www.absolumentjolie.com/files/wp/mrmrssmith05.jpg
Dita von Teese weds Marilyn Manson (2006)
Renowned for her love of vintage glamour, Dita von Teese chose an extravagant custom wedding dress by Vivienne Westwood for her wedding to Manson in 2006, which she wore over a figure-enhancing corset from famous corsetier, Mr. Pearl.
Why is it iconic?: It brought gothic back.
See the look: https://assets.vogue.com/photos/5ebd892b6ad0087219d68990
Margot Robbie in The Wolf Of Wall Street (2013)
Margot Robbie wore a white lace lingerie set in "The Wolf of Wall Street" to seduce her husband. Rather than objectifying her, the scene emphasised her feminine confidence and autonomy. It’s one of the most talked-about scenes from the movie to date.
Why is it iconic?: It’s bold, empowering and unapologetically sexy.
See the look: https://i2-prod.mirror.co.uk/incoming/article29206471.ece
Bimini Bon Boulash x Sicky Magazine (2021)
In collaboration with Sicky Magazine, British drag queen and model Bimini Bon Boulash wore a nude Jean Paul Gaultier corset with a belted chest and lace up gloves in a striking photoshoot.
Why is it iconic?: It demonstrates inclusivity and diversity in contemporary fashion.
See the look: https://sickymag.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/1-34.1.jpg
Kourtney Kardashian weds Travis Barker (2022)
Kourtney Kardashian turned heads at her wedding to Travis Barker in 2022 wearing a Dolce & Gabbana corset dress with delicate straps, mesh gloves and a large lace veil.
Why is it iconic?: It led to a 167% surge in online searches for 'wedding dress'.
See the look: https://ar.vogue.me/image_provider
Rhianna x Vogue (2022)
In May 2022, Rhianna graced the cover of Vogue in a red lace Alaïa catsuit with a boned bust and matching gloves, showing off her gorgeous body and baby bump to redefine what's considered 'decent' for pregnant women.
Why is it iconic?: It boldly celebrates pregnant bodies (and proves they look good in lace)!
See the look: https://assets.vogue.com/photos/624c6535bdfffe0a7a92740e
Harry Styles x Dazed (2022)
Harry Styles is well-known for challenging gender stereotypes and his 2022 Dazed photoshoot was no different. He wore a John Galliano Spring 2004 corset, styled backwards with black heels and a large pink gemstone ring.
Why is it iconic?: It makes it clear that lingerie can’t and won’t be confined by traditional gender norms.
See the look: https://images-prod.dazeddigital.com/1035/azure/dazed-prod
Lottie Moss x Scarlett Gasque (2023)
Blonde bombshell Lottie Moss teamed up with Scarlett Gasque last year to prove that nobody does it quite like a Moss girl. Modern femininity and timeless lingerie were a match made in heaven for this shoot, which featured our Arctic Blue Scarlett Waspie, Scarlett Wired Bra and Scarlett Lace Thong.
Why is it iconic?: It shows that modern femininity is diverse, risqué, and as sexy as you want it to be!
See the look: https://www.instagram.com/p/Crt-490ILon/
Feel Iconic in Scarlett Gasque Luxury Lingerie
Our timeless, high-quality lingerie and luxurious corsets are designed in London and bring high glamour, a splash of camp energy, and sex appeal with a vintage twist.
Are you ready to own the room and embrace your iconic self?
Shop our collections now and indulge in the luxury that is Scarlett Gasque!