Sexy Panties Can Be Worn Whatever Your Body Shape

Today, sexy panties are considered a basic staple of most women's wardrobes. From sexy thongs and g-strings to bikinis, women's underwear today offers many choices. However, this was not always the case. Provided here is a brief guide to sexy panties through the ages.

Loincloths
The loincloth is believed to have been the earliest form of clothing. In warmer climates, the loincloth was often worn as the only garment. In colder temperatures, however, the loincloth was generally worn as a protective under layer beneath heavier clothing. Both men and women wore loincloths, and the sole purpose is believed to have been comfort and protection, not sex appeal. Sexy panties had not yet been conceived.

Medieval
In the Middle Ages, both men and women wore a type of leggings known as braies. Again, the purpose was functional, not sexual. Chastity belts are often associated with the Crusades, but this appears to be largely a mythological connection. Chastity belts appeared during the Renaissance, but were often worn by women trying to guard against sexual assault rather than those with jealous husbands.

The Age of Corsetry
During the Renaissance, the straight, boyish look of the medieval period gave way to styles that enhanced the woman's figure. During this time, women wore layers of clothing, but underpants were generally not part of the ensemble. Pantaloons or pantalettes, long underwear made of white linen, became popular during the late 19th century to protect against chafing under crinolines and provide modesty with shorter skirts. Although pantaloons were not designed to be sexy panties, some sex appeal was inherent.

The bustle was briefly popular during the 1880s. Designed to exaggerate the size and shape of the buttocks, the bustle was an early example of sexy panties' use in enhancing the body. However, the bustle itself, consisting of a padded frame, was anything but sexy.

Bloomers
Modern sexy panties might not exist had bloomers never been invented. Popularized in the early 20th century by athletic young women, bloomers evolved from the earlier pantaloons. Billowy and fastened just below the knee, bloomers provided modesty to women who took up active pursuits.

The 1920s
The 1920s ushered in the age of the flapper. Flappers were outspoken and liberal, and bucked societal norms. The modern age of lingerie can be traced to the flappers of the 1920s. It was at this time that sexy panties were truly born.

The 1930s to Today
Styles have, of course, changed over the years. Along with changing fashions, the idea of what is sexy has also changed dramatically. Through the 1930s and 1940s, practicality was still highly emphasized. In the '50s, a playful sexuality emerged.

The sexual revolution of the 1960s and 1970s allowed women to wholeheartedly embrace their sexuality. During and after the sexual revolution, sexy panties became available in a wide range of styles. Today, bikinis, thongs and g-strings are especially popular.