Wednesday, January 18, 2023

The Lingerie Brand Making A Compelling Case For Granny Panties

While cotton underwear and thongs are in regular rotation, one intimate, in particular, is finally getting the long-overdue attention it deserves: granny panties.

No longer sequestered to the back corners of our drawers, the ultra-comfy, full-coverage undie in the granny variety continues to see a spike in demand. And it looks like when it comes to underwear, the bigger-the-better motto applies — which is excellent news for the mother-daughter duo behind the brand Bloomers.

Her Highness Lace Underwear in Pearl, $38

“I thought to myself, ‘I can’t be the only woman in the world looking for comfortable, sexy granny panties,” Bloomers’ co-founder Dr. Shaula Alexander Yemini explains to Refinery29. “Being an entrepreneur, when I see a void in the marketplace, I have to do something about it. And that’s how Bloomers was born.” All of the brand’s high-waisted undies are constructed with four-way stretch lace and offered in sizes XS to XXL, in six jewel-inspired colors and three new sweets-inspired colors. The comfortable full-coverage bottoms veer into the “sexy” category, thanks to the clingy, transparent fabrication and a scalloped hem that lends a boudoir-ish elegance to the sleepy silhouette. Each pair of Bloomers underwear is $38 and comes with a reusable mesh laundry bag for easy machine washing.

These are worth every penny, I want them in every color. Happy divorce present to me!

BLOOMERS REVIEWER

“During the pandemic, shoppers started prioritizing comfort over style, and granny panties fit the new WFH lifestyle,” says Bloomers’ co-founder Noa Arias — so a year into a global quarantine, Arias launched the brand alongside her mother, a former tech entrepreneur. She believes the designs by Bloomers — high-waist, fullback lace undies that are guaranteed to be wedgie-free — are poised for popularity, even if couch-bound comfort-wear is now more of a weekend thing. “Now that we’re heading back to normal, we don’t want to give up being comfortable, [but] we’re eager to be fashionable once again,” Arias explains. “Bloomers’ briefs are the best of both worlds: They have all the comfort and coverage of a granny panty, but they’re made from a soft, stylish lace with a scalloped edge.”

Knickerboxers Lace Boyshort in Amethyst, $38

According to the retail intelligence platform Edited, lingerie is expected to hit $325.36 billion by 2025, and “granny panties” à la Bridget Jones (who would more likely use the British term “big knickers”) are in. In the same way that comfort came first for all other garments during lockdown, bottoms with both high waists and full coverage are outselling hipster styles. Bloomers adopts this comfort-centric approach for briefs and boyshorts in a way that’s still sexy — evidenced by a flood of online reviews from customers who prize the brand’s signature mix of comfort and curb appeal. “These are worth every penny, I want them in every color,” wrote a reviewer named Charlotte. “Actually, maybe I’ll get every color. Happy divorce present to me!” Ashima G. wrote that “[t]hese undies are sexy with the benefit of full coverage,” and Jen commented that they made them feel “instantly cute and comfy. So flattering (with and without clothes) and great quality.”

Her Highness Lace Brief in Licorice, $38

These may not be your grandma’s granny panties, but according to reviewers, they certainly feel like it. So if you have any qualms, know that there’s underwear out there that offers a cute, comfortable compromise.

At Refinery29, we’re here to help you navigate this overwhelming world of stuff. All of our market picks are independently selected and curated by the editorial team. All product details reflect the price and availability at the time of publication. If you buy something we link to on our site, Refinery29 may earn commission.

Like what you see? How about some more R29 goodness, right here?

The Internet’s Most Affordable Lingerie

6 Pairs of Period Underwear For Any Leaky

How To Wear Grandma-Approved Bloomers

How R29 Editors Styled Reformation’s Celebrity-Approved Loafers

By now, loafers have become a classic staple, beloved by ‘90s movie stars and dads everywhere. With the comeback of ‘90s fashion trends, from slip dresses to bucket hats, they’re also one of the most sought-after items today, with celebrities like Hailey Bieber and Bella Hadid endorsing their modern, chunky versions in their street style outfits. 

Naturally, we’ve all looked somewhere for more affordable versions that can be equally as versatile, fashionable, and, yes, celeb-approved. So much so that the hashtag #loafers on TikTok has grown to over 240 million views. This is why Reformation’s Agathea loafers — worn by the likes of Gigi Hadid, Katie Holmes, and Malia Obama — are constantly selling out, with the search term “Reformation loafers” gathering over 1 billion views on TikTok. 

So, when the brand restocked the style in new colorways earlier this month, the Refinery29 editors knew it was time to put them to the test. Distinguished by their chunky lug sole and narrow silhouette — available in 8 colorways for less than $300 — it’s no wonder the classic style is one of the most popular out there. But when it comes to styling and grinding in the New York City streets, can the Agathea loafers measure up to their hype? 

Ahead, three Refinery29 editors share their takes on the celeb-approved shoe. 

At Refinery29, we’re here to help you navigate this overwhelming world of stuff. All of our market picks are independently selected and curated by the editorial team. If you buy something we link to on our site, Refinery29 may earn commission.

Irina Grechko, Fashion Director

“What instantly sets this loafer apart from others I previously tried on is the strip of padding in the back. While I typically undergo a painful few days and shed blood to break in brand new loafers, I didn’t get a single blister while wearing these shoes all day, and I think the padding had a lot to do with that (I also wore socks). I also loved that the style had a platform lug sole which adds height unlike traditional pairs. This year, I am getting into flared denim for the way it can bring attention to the footwear you are wearing. To complement the retro-inspired colorway of the loafer, I topped it off with a collegiate blazer in a plaid pattern that has similar brown undertones. It’s a solid loafer which could be styled a myriad of ways if a more traditional loafer look is what you’re after.”

Cortni Spearman, Director of Social Media

“These loafers are super trendy, extremely comfortable (which I was surprised about), and the metallic color is just so unique and instantly elevates an outfit. It also goes with just about anything. I like that there’s a slight platform for a bit of height and dimension, and the chunkiness makes this loafer so easy to walk in. My pair was slightly big, and even with a sock they slipped a bit from time to time. I paired these loafers with faux leather pants and a white button down that I layered with a faux leather bustier top. The white of the button down paired with the black from the sole of the shoe and pants pulled this look together, while the metallic pop of the shoe really brought it home.”

Frances Solá-Santiago, Fashion Writer

“I’m fairly new to loafers (I got my first pair a few months ago) and these made me excited to continue wearing this classic style for years to come. I love that they look super elegant, yet modern, thanks to the chunky sole. I’ll say that, while I’m now a loafers fan, it does take a bit for the shoes to break in (I got some blisters even wearing band-aids and socks). In terms of styling, I decided to pull inspiration from the loafers’ two-tone hue, pairing them with pinstripe wide-leg pants that made me look like an ‘80s banker, and a simple black blazer. I totally get why celebs and fashion fans alike are all over these loafers: they’re affordable, easy to style, and made to last season after season, no matter the trends.”

Like what you see? How about some more R29 goodness, right here?

The 24 Best Chunky Loafers For Fall

29 Products R29 Readers Loved In September

The ‘90s Skirt Suit Is Shorter Than Ever

7 Handbag Trends To Tote Around In 2023

While a new year doesn’t necessarily need to mean a new you, it could mean it’s time for a new handbag. This essential piece of your next arm party may be available for purchase in all shapes and sizes, but it’s not a decision to be taken lightly. A handbag can be heavy. It can make or break an outfit. It can steal the sartorial spotlight… and not always for the right reasons. So if you’re wondering which purse is best for carrying (on) in the new year, we’re here to keep you on course with the biggest trends of 2023.

From the dystopian styles that have infiltrated runways to the Y2K comeback that has yet to cool down, there’s plenty of fashion fodder to sift through for accessories inspo these days. If you belong to the “pandemic killed the micro purse” camp, we’re happy to report that a scattering of more practical picks is in for the season ahead, along with some other more fanciful trends worth trying out.

Below, we’ve broken down the top seven handbag styles that are bound to be big in 2023 (though not always in the literal sense of the word).

At Refinery29, we’re here to help you navigate this overwhelming world of stuff. All of our market picks are independently selected and curated by the editorial team. All product details reflect the price and availability at the time of publication. If you buy or click on something we link to on our site, Refinery29 may earn commission.

Handbag Trend 2023: Utilitarian Style

Considering our prediction that “futuristic utility” will be a major style aesthetic this year, we’re expecting to see bags that follow suit, too. With the rise in popularity of cargo pants and compartment-rich coats comes a variety of practical purses to match. Think: lots of room, zippers, and pockets that are fashioned out of fabrics fit to take on all the elements.

Handbag Trend 2023: Forever Pieces

The combined influence of classic-core (capsule wardrobes, closet staples, etc.) and conscious shopping have many people gravitating toward quality over quantity. And it’s certainly no coincidence that brands have been dipping back into their archives to revive the iconic pieces of the past that have stood the test of time — from Prada’s ’90s-inspired Cleo bag to Gucci’s Jackie purse from 1961. Whether you’re interested in an investment purchase to last a lifetime or seeking out a retro-leaning silhouette, a sleek black shoulder bag is one of the smartest trends to grab onto this season.

Handbag Trend 2023: Top Handles

Ever the lady bag, these particular purses are not for slinging over shoulders or dangling off the elbow. Made to be handled with care, the look-at-me pieces command the constant attention of your fingertips… unless, of course, they come with a longer shoulder strap for days when you’re in a crossbody kind of mood.

Handbag Trend 2023: Styles That Shine

The sartorial energy we are carrying into 2023 is “shine on.” Ever since fashion week made its glittering return to in-person programming, there’s been an undeniably festive feeling across many of its runways. So when it comes to our closets, we’re compelled to keep the optimism party going with all that sparkles: metallic mesh, rhinestones, sequins, and diamanté details galore.

Handbag Trend 2023: Woven Fabrics

If you’ve got a Spidey sense for all things style, you’ll know that woven fabrics make for a web of chic options this season. Shiny leathers, smooth suedes, vegan alternatives, and puffer fabrics are among the range of materials that have been intertwined for your wearing pleasure. Look at it as Bottega Veneta aesthetic fit for any budget.

Handbag Trend 2023: Scoop Tops

The way toward finding your personal style this year might not necessarily come in the form of a straight line, and this extends to handbags. Architectural shapes may be adding structure to the chaos of our closets this season, but some of the edgier iterations of this trend feature a slight curve or dip at their enclosures to add a touch of whimsy to your look.

Handbag Trend 2023: Personality Purses

We’ve said it once, and we’ll say it again: the best trends to try out are the ones uniquely suited to you and your mood. And with the style world fully leaning into kooky collabs and OTT outfits right now, there’s endless opportunity to find the perfect “thing” purse for your personality. Love love? Heart-shaped bags à la Balenciaga and Kate Spade have got you covered. New York or nowhere? There’s a bag for that, too.

Like what you see? How about some more R29 goodness, right here?

Why Dystopian Fashion Is Trending For 2023

7 Shoe Trends To Up Your 2023 Footwear Game

5 Style Aesthetics ThatTake Over Fashion In 2023

Tuesday, January 17, 2023

The Best Quilted Vests For Layering On Chilly Winter Days

It might be winter, but in some climates, it's like the weather is preparing for spring. It's too warm to wear a quilted jacket and too cold for just a cardigan sweater — the struggles are real. A quilted vest allows you to layer for extra-crisp days and wear it alone when it's a bit mellow outside. The outerwear is perfect for those days when the weather seems unable to make up its mind. It's why it's time to freshen up your winter wardrobe with a new quilted vest or two. You never know when you might need it.

Plus, the chic vest truly matches any 'fit and allows creative freedom when it comes to layering. For instance, style it with a long-sleeve sweater dress and boots for laid-back dinners with friends or over your athleisure set on the way to the gym. Fortunately, you don't have to look too far for the right vest. We're here to guide you with the best 16 quilted vests to take you through winter and all of its chilly activities. Start browsing ahead for your new go-to transitional piece, from timeless black pieces to colorful ones, vests with hoods, and longer-length styles.

At Refinery29, we’re here to help you navigate this overwhelming world of stuff. All of our market picks are independently selected and curated by the editorial team. If you buy something we link to on our site, Refinery29 may earn commission.

For more can't-miss shopping stories delivered straight to your inbox, sign up for our Most Wanted newsletter.

Black Quilted Vests


Stick to the classics with a black quilted vest. The outerwear matches any complementing pieces, whether you pair it with a black long-sleeve top or a chunkier oversized sweater. It's a timeless staple to have on hand.

Athleta Whisper Featherless Vest, $, available at Athleta


Ganni Oversized Shiny Puff Vest, $, available at Ganni


J.Crew New Quilted Excursion Vest, $, available at J.Crew


Mango Ultra-Light Quilted Gilet, $, available at Mango

Colorful Quilted Vests


If all-black 'fits are your thing, but you're interested in adding a bit of radiant hue to your ensemble, a colorful quilted vest is the way to go.

ASOS DESIGN Nylon Onion Quilted Vest In Light Khaki, $, available at ASOS


North Face Women’s Printed ThermoBall™ Eco Vest, $, available at North Face


Uniqlo Warm Padded Quilted Vest, $, available at Uniqlo


Girlfriend Collective Gold Everyone Puffer Vest, $, available at Girlfriend Collective

Hooded Quilted Vests


Stay extra cozy when the weather gets brisk with a hooded quilted vest. The hood is practical and adds another dimension to your look.

FP Movement Dream Big Quilted Vest, $, available at Free People


L.L. Bean Women's PrimaLoft Packaway Long Vest, $, available at L.L. Bean


Patagonia Women's Bivy Hooded Vest, $, available at Patagonia


Zella Women's Long Hooded Puffer Vest, $, available at Nordstrom

Long Quilted Vests


Long quilted vests offer extra protection from the wind. We've picked various styles, from a lightly insulated Lululemon one to a luxe-style belted with a faux-fur hooded long vest from Karen Millen.


Lululemon Quilted Light Insulation Vest, $, available at Lululemon


Karen Millen Belted Puffer Faux Fur Maxi Hooded Vest, $, available at KAREN MILLEN


Nap Loungewear Zip-Up Down Puffer Vest, $, available at Nap Loungewear


River Island Black Quilted Padded Longline Gilet, $, available at River Island

Like what you see? How about some more R29 goodness, right here?

26 Quilted Jackets To Pair With Your Fall Outfits

25 Sweaters Vests To Channel Your Inner Dad

22 Matching Sweatsuits To Live In All Year Round