The Trend Report - Underneath it all

One of the key accessory trend for the Spring Summer catwalk 2011 was the idea of bringing old school gym knickers out to the forefront. Underwear worn as outerwear is a recurring idea happening time and time again and this summer is no exception.

This trend is ideal for translation into lingerie design, meaning that the only change needs to be made is that the designs are toned down enough to be worn without covering up.

Dolce & Gabbana have pioneered the use of the bodysuit as an outer garment since last Spring Summer's delicate floral collection. Gianfranco Ferre and Acne both demonstrate the old school gym knicker style with more of a tailored twist.

Daks have more of a sporty take on the gym knicker whereas Paul Smith heads back to the tailored approach with a waistcoat and knicker one-piece. Loewe keeps the shorts short with an attractive floral print.

There are plenty of options of changing underwear into something that can be worn as part of an outfit, especially with the use of control shape-wear. Ender Legard Corsetry showcases a range of one pieces and on pret-a-porter.com they are suggested to be styled with a pair of Christian Louboutins and nothing else. La Perla and Stella McCartney offer a choice of one pieces that would make the perfect focal point of an outfit. La Perla's range of control knickers are also reminiscent of the short gym knickers along with Phillip Lim.