The lingerie industry, particularly the segment focused on adult sexy lingerie, is experiencing a transformative phase in 2025, driven by consumer preferences for inclusivity, comfort, and bold fashion. This detailed analysis draws from recent market reports, fashion trend analyses, and expert insights to provide a comprehensive overview of the current landscape. Below, we explore the trends, their implications, and the broader cultural context, ensuring a thorough examination of the topic.
Market Context and Growth
Recent market reports indicate significant growth in the global lingerie market, projected to reach USD 141.81 billion by 2030, growing at a CAGR of 6.1% from 2023 to 2030
. The intimate lingerie market, which includes sexy lingerie, was valued at USD 14.72 billion in 2023 and is anticipated to grow at a CAGR of 9.7% from 2024 to 2030
. This growth is fueled by increasing awareness of fit, rising millennial populations, and higher disposable incomes, particularly in regions like Asia Pacific, which dominated with over 40.0% market share in 2022.
The U.S. market, estimated at USD 22.20 billion in 2023, is expected to grow at a CAGR of 7.1% from 2024 to 2030, driven by disposable income and admiration for lingerie
. These figures highlight the expanding demand for lingerie, including sexy styles, as consumers seek products for various occasions, from daily wear to special events.
Trend 1: Inclusivity and Diversity
Inclusivity has become a cornerstone of the lingerie industry, particularly for adult sexy lingerie. A CNN article from 2019 noted that lingerie brands are responding to consumer discontent by offering wider cup sizes and “nude” shades for different skin colors, with the market projected to reach $59 billion globally by 2024
. Brands like Savage X Fenty offer sizes up to 3X and 44DDD, while others extend to 46H or higher, and transgender-inclusive brands like Origami Customs have doubled sales in four years by offering gender-affirming options like binders and gaffs. This trend is supported by campaigns using diverse models, such as Lonely Lingerie, which features 35 bra sizes without Photoshop, and Curvy Couture, designed by curvy women for curvy women.
The push for inclusivity is not without controversy. Some view it as empowering, celebrating body diversity, while others argue it challenges traditional beauty standards, potentially facing resistance from more conservative market segments. This debate is evident in discussions like the Daily Utah Chronicle’s piece, “Soter: Is the Lingerie Industry Still Sexist?” which explores whether lingerie epitomizes women’s liberation or perpetuates patriarchal norms
.
Trend 2: Comfort Without Compromise
Comfort is a significant driver in 2025, with consumers prioritizing lingerie that feels good all day. Market reports highlight a shift towards softer bras, seamless designs, and breathable fabrics like cotton, lycra, and stretch-lace
. This trend is evident in pieces like high-cut leg briefs for elongating silhouettes, as noted by Who What Wear, referencing Bridget Jones knickers for comfort
.
Expert insights from Makeda Scille, VP of Design at Hanky Panky, emphasize that lingerie doesn’t have to sacrifice comfort for style, with Supima Cotton briefs perfect for those prioritizing comfort
. This aligns with the industry’s response to fast-fashion expectations, addressing production challenges like the 20-50 components in bras and serving 50-60 sizes, as noted in the CNN article. The focus on comfort is seen as empowering, though some debate whether it dilutes the “sexy” aspect, with Refinery29 questioning if lingerie is misogynistic or empowering
.
Trend 3: Underwear as Outerwear
One of the most striking trends for 2025 is underwear as outerwear, blurring the lines between intimate apparel and fashion. Gooseberry Intimates highlights bras as statement tops, lace and mesh lingerie paired with high-waisted skirts, and thongs with low-rise jeans
. Who What Wear notes this trend’s continuation, with lace long sleeve tops and camisoles styled with blazers or denim, referencing Kendall Jenner’s pantsless trend
.
This trend is part of a broader fashion movement, with runways like Nina Ricci and Simone Rocha incorporating lingerie dresses for day-to-night wear
. It reflects a desire for self-expression, but opinions vary, with some seeing it as empowering and others questioning its alignment with traditional gender roles, especially in professional settings.
Trend 4: Bold Colors and Prints
Vibrant colors and bold prints are dominating 2025 lingerie trends. Gooseberry Intimates notes bright, bold lingerie paired with high-waisted trousers and oversized blazers, while Who What Wear highlights berry tones like plum and raspberry for luxury and warmth (9 Lingerie Trends for 2025 | Gooseberry – Gooseberry Intimates, No Clothes Required—5 New Lingerie Trends Better Than Your Everyday Outfits, According to an Expert). The Knot also mentions red as a fun, bold choice, perfect for peeking out under casual wear
.
This trend aligns with a move towards hyper-femininity, as noted by Cosabella’s Head of Design Dani Reed, with vacation-inspired colors and delicate embroidery
. The controversy here lies in whether bold colors cater to personal expression or reinforce traditional expectations of femininity, with some consumers preferring neutral tones for versatility.
Trend 5: Romantic Gothic Aesthetic
The romantic gothic aesthetic, inspired by Victorian and bohemian styles, is gaining traction. Who What Wear describes it as a dark evolution of the coquette trend, influenced by TV and cinema like Nosferatu and The Craft, featuring dark fabrics and intricate details
. This trend appeals to those seeking drama and luxury, with examples like Morticia Addams-inspired looks.
While empowering for some, this aesthetic can be seen as niche, potentially alienating consumers who prefer lighter, more versatile styles. The debate centers on whether it reinforces gothic stereotypes or offers a fresh take on sensuality, with fashion magazines like Vogue and Harper’s Bazaar noting its resurgence
.
Trend 6: The ‘Naked Dress’ Phenomenon
The ‘naked dress’ trend, popularized by celebrities like Rihanna and Bella Hadid, requires lingerie that offers coverage under sheer outfits. Who What Wear highlights French briefs for their balance of sensuality and modesty, perfect for body-hugging dresses
. This trend is part of the broader move towards transparency in fashion, with lingerie becoming a visible, essential layer.
This trend sparks debate, with some viewing it as empowering and others as objectifying, especially given the male gaze discussions in articles like Refinery29
. The balance between coverage and sexiness is a key consideration, with brands like Hanky Panky offering solutions that cater to both.
Detailed Trend Table
To organize the trends, here is a table summarizing the key points from Gooseberry Intimates and Who What Wear, with examples and implications:
| Trend Name | Description | Examples/Style Tips | Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bras as Statement Tops | Bras worn as visible tops, often sheer or layered. | Pair with sheer blouse, layer over a top. | Blurs underwear/outerwear lines, promotes self-expression, may face workplace scrutiny. |
| Lace and Mesh Lingerie | Delicate, sexy fabrics for intimate and outerwear looks. | Pair with high-waisted skirt, layer under tailored suit. | Enhances femininity, comfort, but may be seen as too revealing by some. |
| High-Waisted Underwear | Full-coverage briefs with sheer outerwear for sophistication. | Pair with gauzy slip dress, heels or boots. | Offers modesty, elongates silhouette, aligns with comfort trend. |
| Thongs and Low-rise Jeans | Thongs for low-rise fashion revival, visible as outerwear. | Stock up on thongs, pair with low-rise jeans. | Bold, trendy, but may reinforce objectification debates. |
| Bright, Bold, Vibrant | Vibrant colors like berry tones, florals for playful sensuality. | Pair bright bra with trousers, oversized blazer. | Reflects self-expression, may challenge neutral preferences. |
| Romantic Gothic Aesthetic | Dark, luxurious fabrics with Victorian influence. | Inspired by Nosferatu, Morticia Addams, intricate lace. | Adds drama, niche appeal, may alienate lighter style preferences. |
| The ‘Naked Dress’ | Lingerie for sheer dresses, offering coverage and sensuality. | French briefs under body-hugging dresses, Rihanna, Bella Hadid looks. | Essential for transparency trend, sparks empowerment vs. objectification debate. |
Cultural and Societal Implications
These trends reflect a cultural shift towards body positivity and self-expression, with lingerie no longer just functional but a form of personal style. However, the controversy around lingerie’s role—whether empowering or perpetuating traditional gender roles—remains. Articles like Refinery29 and the Daily Utah Chronicle highlight this debate, with some seeing lingerie as a patriarchal tool and others as a symbol of liberation (Is Lingerie Actually Sexy Or Is It Misogynistic?, Soter: Is the Lingerie Industry Still Sexist? – The Daily Utah Chronicle).
Sustainability is also emerging, with consumers prioritizing eco-friendly materials and ethical production, as noted in market reports
. This aligns with broader fashion trends but adds complexity to production, given the intricate nature of lingerie manufacturing.
Conclusion
The 2025 trends in adult sexy lingerie are a blend of inclusivity, comfort, and bold fashion, reflecting consumer desires for self-expression and confidence. While empowering for many, the industry faces ongoing debates about gender roles and societal expectations. As the market continues to grow, these trends will likely evolve, shaped by consumer feedback and cultural shifts, ensuring lingerie remains a dynamic and expressive category.
Key Citations
- Lingerie Market Size, Share, Growth & Trends Report, 2030
- Intimate Lingerie Market Size, Share & Growth Report, 2030
- U.S. Lingerie Market Size, Share & Growth | Report, 2030
- For lingerie brands, is inclusivity the new sexy? | CNN
- 9 Lingerie Trends for 2025 | Gooseberry – Gooseberry Intimates
- No Clothes Required—5 New Lingerie Trends Better Than Your Everyday Outfits, According to an Expert
- 2025’s Top Lingerie Trends are Both Beautiful and Practical
- 2025 Lingerie Trends to Watch – Cosabella
- Lingerie Trends 2025: Sheer Sets, Vintage Gowns, & More
- Is Lingerie Actually Sexy Or Is It Misogynistic?
- Soter: Is the Lingerie Industry Still Sexist? – The Daily Utah Chronicle