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Valentine’s Day is fast approaching and you’re probably either excited, apathetic or entirely unenthused. Over the years I’ve experienced all of those emotions when confronted with the date, with each reaction directly tied to my current romantic status. But recently I’ve come to view February 14 as less of a celebration solely for those coupled up, and more of an opportunity to show love to other areas of my life, including that most contentious of relationships – the one I have with my own body.
Our bodies are our lifelong companions after all, so why not regard them with the same reverence we would a lover? Whether you’ve got a date for V-Day or not, make the day into yet another welcome opportunity to treat yourself to something that will make you feel incredible in your own skin. And I know what you’re thinking – shopping for underwear is not going to bolster my body confidence – but the next generation of lingerie purveyors are thinking differently than the likes of Victoria’s Secret.
Sophie Hopkins, co-founder of inclusive intimates e-tailer BITS, was sick of frustrating encounters. “We wanted to make shopping for intimates an enjoyable experience (with a lot less UGH!) and we wanted to make it easier to find the right fit. We felt to do that, we needed to create a one-stop shop for all bits, all boobs, all bodies, all demographics, all life stages,” she explains of the business she launched with friend Bianca Robortaccio last month.
The pair wanted to create a space that would encourage body positivity, real conversations and an accepting community. “It’s about using our platform to foster a sense of belonging through understanding and respect, rather than conformity. No matter who you are, what you do or what you (or your bits) look like, we want to celebrate everyone,” explains Hopkins. BITS is the end result; an edit of considered, sustainably-minded intimate products, from underwear to pleasure items and period care.
Although both Valentine’s Day and shopping for smalls can be fraught with discomfort, Hopkins says it’s actually the perfect time to give back to your body. “Use Valentine’s Day – a day that is all about celebrating love – as a reminder to apply it to ourselves, and to our bodies too. It’s not always easy, and everyone has totally different experiences when shopping for lingerie, but life really is too short not to celebrate your own body,” she says. “If you’re looking for lingerie, and feeling a bit uninspired, online is a great place to browse and shop – it’s intimate, it’s private and you can do it from the comfort of your own couch or bed.”
If you are hoping to give a set to your friend or significant other, Hopkins has some advice on that front too. “It can be stressful buying for someone else, but take a moment to think about the person you’re buying for and what they like (or stalk their lingerie drawer) and don’t shy away from gifting something more functional – it will probably spark lots of everyday joy, not to mention cost per wear!”
Shop GRAZIA‘s edit below of the best intimates to show yourself a little extra love this Valentine’s Day, whether you’re after a sexy lingerie set or luxe basics that you’ll feel comfy in every day.
Saturdays The Label Aphrodite Bralette and G-String Set, $90 SHOP NOW
Nico Full Cup Wirefree Bra, $78 SHOP NOW
Naturana Embroidered Bikini Brief, $39.95 SHOP NOW
Marlies Dekkers Dame De Paris Balconette Bra, $139.95 SHOP NOW
