There's a Glaring Gap in the Market for Cashmere Underpants (and I Want to Talk About It)

Several years ago, say literally 7+ years ago, I had the good fortune of stumbling upon a luscious pair of boy shorts at a Victoria's Secret sale. You know, back when I was still masochistic enough to shop a Victoria's Secret sale. Upon turning over the label, I saw that there was a reason I simply could not bring myself to put them down - they were (and remain) 100% cashmere. They've remained in my lingerie drawer since, though I only break them out a few times a year, in the very coldest weather - the kind of weather we had last night in New York.  

This morning, after sleeping in said cashmere underpants, I found myself on a mission - a mission for more, but I came up close to empty-handed. What, lingerie makers, is up with that? Where, cashmere makers, are all of the cashmere panties? 

If you're like me and you believe in life, liberty and, yes, cashmere underpants, here are a few of your best bets:

• Kiki de Montparnasse gets it right, as they often do, though the price tag gives me an actual migraine, $525
• Catbird's Cashmere Boy Shorts are bigger than I would like, personally, but don't let that stop you. $136
• La Perla's Studio Balletto short is a cotton knit, and thereby inferior (though still gorgeous), $94 at Journelle
• Sartoria (above) uses upcycled cashmere and merino wool in their collections, and at just $43.42 for a custom pair on Etsy, there's no need to feel guilty for indulging your ladyparts.

OOTD: A Burberry Hangover

As we all know by now, I believe firmly in investing in the basics - wardrobe classics that will take you day to day, season to season and year to year. Of course, a trench falls among the most classic items imaginable, but even I was not mentally prepared for the significant investment that I spontaneously made on Sunday, when I popped by the Burberry flagship on 57th Street after a particularly rigorous Physique 57 class.

There, I was (as one might expect) greeted by trenches of all varieties, and an extraordinarily patient Outerwear Specialist named Lisa, who allowed me to try on every single khaki or honey colored trench (among my only requisites) in stock in my size...despite the fact that I was wearing cropped Lululemon leggings and an Old Navy fleece hoodie for the occasion.

And while I almost caved on an uber-classic style, at the very last moment, I spotted the Leather Strap Trench Coat (seen above) out of the corner of my eye. As soon as I put it on, I knew - THIS was the trench for me. It's classic, but with just enough edge to allow me to still feel like myself. As Edith Piaf so sagely sang (cc Felicia Sullivan), Je Ne Regrette Rien (that's I Regret Nothing, for the non-francophiles among us.)

Head to toe, here's how I wore my latest acquisition in today's dreary, WINDY New York weather:

• Burberry Leather Strap Trench Coat
• J. Crew Funnelneck Cashmere Sweater (no longer available, other options here)
• 7 For All Mankind Skinny Second Skin Legging Jean in Clean White (no, it's NOT too early for white jeans, but thank you for asking)
• Loeffler Randall Claudette Platform Wedge (no longer available)

Photo snapped by Christine White of Court and Hudson, whose hair inspires me on a daily basis.

Get the Look: Loungin'

As the weather cools down, there's nothing that I love more than a quiet night in, curled up on the couch with a cuppa, a luxe candle and my DVR (I'm old, it's true.) Comfort is key, though of course I like to be presentable, so I pair a casual pair of leggings with cashmere from top to bottom.

What's do you wear to relax at home?

Shop This: Inhabit Sample Sale

To be entirely honest, I've been living in Inhabit's chic cotton knits this spring. They're classic in shape - think cardigan, tank, v-neck or tunic - yet unexpected in the details - like super luxe, slim fitting fabrics and raw, exposed seams that add a little edge.

If you're in need of some basics that are anything but, you're in luck. The brand is holding a sample sale this week both in the city and online (shop May 18-20 for online-only deals.) If you see a petite brunette at the New York sale with an armful, that's me - be sure to say hello! 

Happy Shopping!

 

Black Friday Scoop - Old Navy

If you're in the market for cashmere, get thee to Old Navy tomorrow. Their Black Friday specials promise 50% off cashmere, denim, performance fleece and more.  I'm currently digging this casual but still chic cashmere zip hoodie, originally $79.50. 

To answer your likely question on quality - it's a nice mid-weight knit and the cashmere is decent but not spectacular.  Still, for that price? Hard to beat.  Happy Shopping!