​Buying Yourself Underwear Is Good For You, It’s Official

It's always a bit of a scary moment when your other half hands you a box and you know it's underwear. You pull the ribbon slowly, trying to keep your face straight, praying it's your style. So let's face it, as lovely as it is to receive it, when you buy yourself some underwear, it's win-win: you know you'll love it.

It wasn't always this way. The underwear scene used to be a super boring affair, until the sixties. Back then it was purely practical and beige; bras were designed to keep your boobs pointy, never mind whatever shape they actually were. Luckily all that changed: we started seeing underwear that had personality, and now we've got our pick of the knickers - when we look in our underwear drawer, we can decide what kind of day we want to have and who we want to be.

Ann Summers

So we should do more of that. Choosing your own undies can have a really positive effect because it gives us control of the story we're telling about ourselves that day. "We build subliminal stories around the clothes we wear," says Professor Carolyn Mair, a psychologist working in the fashion industry, speaking to the Guardian last year. "The symbolism of those choices is important, and can affect how we feel. Making the decision to wear certain styles of lingerie can make you feel great and really boost your confidence."

So we say, this Valentine's Day, gift yourself. Ann Summers have got some amazing options for you, whatever your style or size - and however you feel.

Luchia Body, £30

Ann Summers

The Luchia Body is a romantic crossover of lingerie and erotic design. It's great as the black sequins are stitched on and layered over sheer nude backing, giving the illusion of sequins floating over your skin.

Orielle plunge bra, £36

Ann Summers

This monochrome bra and knicker set is our favourite kind of retro - a classic look, made super modern with its narrow shape and eyelash lace trim. Also, a perfect way to compliment the set is with this waspie.

Yasmin plunge bra, £36

Ann Summers

We love the detail and black/colour contrast of this padded bra - it's what you'll want to wear under all the gorgeous square-neck dresses doing the rounds at the moment.

Check out the full range on the Ann Summers website - while stocks last!

Samantha O'Sullivan