Victoria’s Secret Launches High-end Lingerie Collection, Already Selling Out

Victoria's Secret launched a pricey designer collection that's selling out fast
Victoria's Secret launched a pricey designer collection that's selling out fast

Women either love or hate Victoria's Secret. We think it's great for cozy pajamas and loungewear, but their lingerie is just not our thing. In our experience the panties don't fit well, the underwires pop out, the fabrics look cheap, and it's nearly impossible to find a bra without inches of padding. With that in mind, we were baffled to learn that the popular mall chain launched a "Designer Collection" Tuesday with prices reaching $300. Really? Can Victoria's Secret make fancy lingerie? They've made their Fantasy Bras every year since 1996 using fine jewels, but none have ever sold.

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In addition to competing with more high-end lingerie brands, the new line was made because Victoria's Secret will no longer sell outside lines like Chantelle Thomas. "We took it in-house because we have a design team that has such a passion for lingerie, and they differentiate Victoria's Secret from any other brand," Ed Razek, president and chief marketing officer of Victoria's Secret, told Women's Wear Daily.

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After perusing all 14 sets in the Designer Collection we'll admit the designs are more sophisticated than the typical neon and leopard print satin items you'll find in stores. If you watched the annual Victoria's Secret Fashion Show back in November you may even recognize a few pieces from the runway. But while luxury brands like Agent Provocateur or La Perla often use fine silks and intricate lace in their lingerie, the Victoria's Secret undergarments are made with "imported polyester." Apparently the most exclusive poly, nylon, and spandex come from overseas!

This set of Victoria's Secret designer lingerie costs $264.
This set of Victoria's Secret designer lingerie costs $264.

We're not sure why someone would pay big bucks for synthetic underwear, but that hasn't stopped shoppers from nearly buying out the entire collection in one day. There are some aesthetically pleasing items available in time for Valentine's Day, but the quality just isn't there. The lavender sheer lace corset (pictured above) is "inspired by iconic Parisian fashion and crafted with a nod to European couturiers" but made with polyester and viscose. it sells for a whopping $298. The polyester balconet push-up bra (at left) is $148, the thong is $48, and the garter belt is $68. That's $264 for the set! While the design is appealing, we'd expect nicer materials for the price. Think we're wrong? You can still grab pieces in select sizes at VictoriasSecret.com and select stores. The collection will return to 13 stores nationwide in June.

For shoppers looking to score luxurious lingerie without totally breaking the bank, we'd suggest websites like figleaves.com, herroom.com, and thelittleflirt.com which offer a great variety of brands, styles, and sizes. Also do not be intimidated by luxury brands like Agent Provocateur! They have a great range of sizes, are really well made, and have bi-annual sales (one is going on right now) with seasonal items at steep discounts that bring prices lower than Victoria's Secret's latest offerings.

Would you buy designer lingerie from Victoria's Secret, or will you save your money for brands with a reputation for making fine luxury goods?

Related links:
What Not to Buy at Victoria's Secret
Victoria's Secret model's bizarre and dangerous dieting tricks
The worst Valentine's Day gifts ever