Where Have All the Ladies Gone?

If you mix the recent penchant for sexy clothing, a high dose of female confidence, and add to that a new-wave sexual revolution, it becomes obvious that today's girls have left their lady-like wardrobe in the attic in lieu for a less-is-best attitude.

On a recent prowl of posh nightclubs I witnessed firsthand how the sign of the times is reflected in today's trends. The dance floor has always been a great place for inspiration and creativity as it is a place where one can 'come into one's own,' or in plainer terms, 'just be oneself.' Good music induces a feel-good vibe, which in turn sparks the coming out of one's shell. And what better way to light the sparks by leaving the shell at home? And so ends the stigma that wearing clothing too sexy employs bimbo or tart connotations because in 2003 it is cool to be sexy and show off your assets.

Perhaps that is why is Madam V, Brazil's upmarket version of Ann Summers, is set to open its first store (and training centre...) in the UK this summer. Somewhere between Agent Provocateur and La Perla, Madam V's lingerie and lifestyle accessories are retailed mainly through classes. These are not ordinary classes, however, as they are aimed at mid to high income earning women over 20, and you won't find any ordinary professor teaching boring prose. A Madame V class is about fine-tuning your inner fantasies and allowing your sexual prowess to come out of hibernation. Preferably through purchasing a sexy set of Madame V knickers and toys.

And while the mini craze is still in full operation (as well as Dr. Atkins diet for those longing to wear one) I am wondering how this will all transcend to autumn/winter fashion. Sexy dress is certainly not seasonally limited, but bare legs and midriff are. And whilst everybody should be allowed to articulate his or her freedom of dress, no matter how short that mini, when the weather goes sour in a few months time, no doubt you'll be back in the attic dusting off those puffy-sleeve jackets and knee-length skirts.