Beneath It All: 100 Years of French Elegance

I think some of the other reviewers missed the point of this book. It's not a "what to wear" guide; it's not an in-depth historical treatise, and it's not soft-core porn. Actually, this book is a really good overview of lingerie and how it's tied in with social trends and ideals of women's bodies over the years. If the photos are titillating, it's because lingerie itself has an erotic side to it, and it's often photographed in a way that enhances that aspect, which is appealing both to men (who see it) and women (who wear it). The photos are beautiful and sexy and add to the appeal of the book - and I'm a heterosexual female. But the text is what's really interesting. I found myself unable to put it down, and it's caused me to think about undergarments in a whole new way.

I'm not sure what others consider titillating material, but this book certainly is not out for the quick, cheap thrill (and that's a good thing). The text describes the changing fashions over the years, and the improvements in materials which allowed those changes in many cases. The pictures range from gritty, authentic b/w "early pioneer style" to 1960's variety to the obligatory Victoria's Secret model shots. There is no shame in appreciating the few photographs which one might consider slightly arousing, and the text is an interesting read. My girlfriend very much enjoyed receiving this book as a surprise gift, which we then read together.