Cosmo Exclusive: 5 Minutes With Soozie Jenkinson

C: What was the inspo behind the SS18 collection?

SJ: “Nature and the great outdoors have inspired our design direction this season—from print to colour and even the laces and embroideries. You will see dainty botanical prints and muted blooms throughout our lingerie, elevating everyday pieces with this season’s trends, to bring the garden inspiration indoors.”

C: Summer 2018 brings with it a lot of whites and sheers. What kind of lingerie should one pair with such pieces?

SJ: “When it comes to whites and sheers, thankfully, the rule book can be thrown aside this season... A hint of lace under your shirt can look super-modern and chic. And with so many designers championing the ‘lace under’ layering on global catwalks, it’s also acceptable to play with colours under your sheer blouses.”

C: Athleisure is also so major at the moment. How have you incorporated this in M&S’ lingerie?

SJ: “The lines are blurred between performance wear clothing and underwear. And while women love our feminine pieces, sporty details are becoming part of lingerie, too—you can spot the elastic waistband in both dainty and sporty bras, giving a subtle nod to the athleisure trend.”

C: Apart from the correct size, is it important to keep one’s body type in mind while selecting lingerie?

SJ: “Of course! At M&S, we have Bra Fit experts that can help you discover the right size and shape for your body type. I’d also recommended that you get measured every six to 12 months, as your body shape can change due to weight gain or loss. But as a general guide, full-cup bras fit most body types, plunge bras are great for narrower frames, and balconette bras fit better on women with broader shoulders.”