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Sexy underwear for every budget

By Korin Miller | korin.miller@am-ny.com

December 24, 2007

Agent P Fifi (Handout)

Unless you're Britney Spears, underwear is a necessity, whatever the weather. So why not celebrate it with a lil' fashion sense?

Whether you're into French lace or 100 percent cotton, there are options for everyone -- and every budget -- this season.

For the ladies
High-end lingerie company Agent Provocateur has made a name for itself as the go-to intimates store for celebrities looking to drop some cash. But with Chantilly lace-covered bras that can cost upwards of $155, the line is certainly not for everyone.

Want a similar look for less? Check out H&M's ever-changing stash of highly affordable bras, panties and corsets, usually $20 or less. Some intricately-woven thongs even retail for $8.

"This season, lingerie is super glamorous," said Jennifer Uglialoro, spokeswoman for H&M. Key looks for the winter line include velvet print and lace-adorned corsets, push-up bras and hipsters.

For those looking to spend even less, Target offers inexpensive yet hip underwear by Gilligan & O'Malley and Xhilaration, whose latest offerings are chock full of bold colors and fun prints.

For the gents
Men's undergarment options have long been restricted to a three-pack of Hanes from the local department store. But a crop of classy underwear companies has taken off in the last decade. And, believe us, your father's boxer collection can't hold a candle to these unmentionables.

Rivaling the classic, stylish Calvin Klein and Dolce & Gabbana undergarments for men is sporty, yet hip brand 2(x)ist. The company offers fitted briefs, boxer-briefs and -- get this -- a line of skivvies made from soy for the eco-minded man, ranging in price from $14 to $25. "We offer something new every season," said Jason Scarlatti, 2(x)ist's chief designer. "We have the legs to push the envelope in fashion."

Newer to the market is C-in2, which features underwear tailored to the fashion-conscious male. Low-cut fitted briefs, a line made of bamboo fabric and (gasp!) thongs are all up for grabs.

Rock-inspired brand Ed Hardy has even jumped into the men's undie action with its own line of moderately-priced, fitted trunks, proving there really is something for everyone out there.