OK, let’s be honest flesh or nude coloured underwear isn’t always the prettiest, but it is often the most practical particularly if you don’t want your knickers on show.

I know that feeling confident in your clothes starts with feeling good in your own skin, from then on it means starting with the right underwear. Getting the right fit, colour and style for your skin tone and shape is key and is the basis to any good outfit.

Depending on your skin tone every person’s skin colour is slightly different, which means choosing nude or non- show underwear is very tricky. The good news is more brands are starting to think about this and are changing the names/shades to suit all skin colours. It’s not just specialist brands creating collections either. Simply Be has just launched ‘Skin Tones’, an edit of underwear in six shades in sizes 8-34. Marks & Spencer and Victoria’s Secret have also broadened their existing lingerie ranges to include more shades that will suit different people.

Inclusivity in fashion is something that’s lacking, to say the least, things are changing and companies or are working toward it, are getting more attention than ever, and I would like to share a few good ones that I have tried and tested myself – in the hope that its helps some of you.

Especially during the summer when lighter clothing is prevalent, lingerie that’s invisible is crucial, so offering just one shade of “nude” underwear, bras, bodysuits, and shapewear simply won’t do. Companies should have a wide variety of shades available, proving that there’s no excuse for anything less, and most importantly must offer inclusive sizing as well.

Here are a few of my favourites,

FlexiFit Modal Briefs from M&S – https://www.marksandspencer.com/3pk-flexifit-full-briefs/p/clp60486939?color=ROSEQUARTZ Having tried these for size I can recommend the fit and the stay in place security on the tummy, the nude is a light to medium shade. Not the prettiest knicker but good for a practical high waisted pair of pants!

No VPL Knicker Shorts from M&S – https://www.marksandspencer.com/3pk-body-no-vpl-high-rise-shorts/p/clp60487009?color=TOPAZ  Great colour choice, lots of options for all skin tones, plus they are seam free which means they don’t leave a mark on your skin and won’t show through your trousers. The shorts option gives you that little bit more coverage too.

Skims – A great selection of colour choices, styles and fit – https://skims.com/?utm_source=instagram&utm_medium=owned-social&utm_campaign=launch

Cool Comfort Cycling Shorts from M&S – https://www.marksandspencer.com/cotton-with-cool-comfort-cycling-shorts/p/clp60540943 If you’re like most women (and me) your thighs probably meet in the middle, this can lead to chafing and let’s be honest a sweaty feeling between your legs. I love a pair of cycling shorts as underwear, they are breathable and comfy, and don’t let your legs rub together.

Stay Cool Chub Rub Shorts from Snag Tights – https://snagtights.com/collections/all-snag-products/products/stay-cool-chub-rub-shorts-caramel-latte  I was recommended to these by another stylist, and I know own many pairs of the shorts and the tights. I love all the colour options – both practical and colourful. Plus, there stay cool tech means you don’t get hot and sweaty and yes no more chub rub!

Nubian Skin Underwear Range – https://www.nubianskin.com/collections/lingerie Nubian Skin Lingerie has a carefully edited collection of lingerie to provide the essential underwear needs of women of colour. Although I personally haven’t bought from them, I have clients who rave about them. They even have a skin tone guide online. A US company but they sell to the UK.

WearCommando – For those of you who prefer a bodysuit or all in one I can highly recommend – https://www.wearcommando.com/products/butter-tank-bodysuit?variant=31558451888181

For great Nude Strapless Bras – Have a look at https://www.wearcommando.com/products/butter-soft-support-strapless-bralette?variant=40804579967029

I hope this has helped you discover some new brands to try, and that colour choice is available to all skin tones.

No more VPL’s….Happy Shopping,

Love Natasha