As I eagerly pulled out my Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show getting-ready outfit from the shopping bag delivered to my doorstep, I couldn’t contain my excitement. I had always wondered what it would feel like to be one of the Angels getting her makeup done backstage in the brand’s signature Satin Short Piped Robe ($60). And now, with the official VS merch emblem emblazoned in crystals on the back, I felt like a true Angel myself. The matching baseball cap, which unfortunately is now sold out from the “Shop the Show” drop, added an extra touch of glamour to my look. I was ready to rock the return of the legendary VS runway at Brooklyn’s Duggal Greenhouse.
But it was the outfit I slipped into after the pink robe that made me the most nervous – the Very Sexy Rose Lace Balconette Catsuit ($130). It was far more daring than the loungewear I had been sporting before, and I couldn’t help but feel a little self-conscious about how see-through the material actually was.
As it turns out, I wasn’t the only one wearing this daring design. Model and former First Lady of France, Carla Bruni, also graced the runway in the same catsuit. As I watched her with admiration from my seat in the audience, I couldn’t help but feel inspired by her confidence. Suddenly, I didn’t feel the need to cover up in my oversize denim jacket anymore. In fact, seeing what my fellow showgoers were wearing also made me feel more liberated in my lingerie as we all watched a VS Fashion Show that was more body inclusive than ever before.
Of course, I must admit that the brand still has a long way to go in terms of inclusivity, as many viewers all over the world have expressed. But for me, getting to wear lingerie that is typically reserved for the Angels made the runway fashion feel more accessible.
So, let me share with you how I styled the VS Very Sexy Rose Lace Balconette Catsuit, worn by Bruni, and give you my full review of this piece, which is still available for purchase online.
Carla Bruni on the Victoria’s Secret Runway
Image Source: Getty / TheStewartofNY/FilmMagic
Carla Bruni, who celebrated getting her wings ahead of the show, looked stunning in the VS Very Sexy Rose Lace Balconette Catsuit paired with the Lace Lightly Lined Demi Bra and the Twinkle Strap Lace Corset Set. Her shimmering beaded wings, chunky stone hoops, and wraparound sparkling stilettos added to the glitzy boning on her top, with the catsuit itself acting as the foundation of her whole look.
How to Style a Lace Catsuit
As a wing-less spectator, I felt it appropriate to layer with an oversize denim jacket from Frame and opted for simple black pumps. I kept on my hat to add a sporty twist. Underneath, I was wearing the VS Shine Patch Lightly Lined Wireless Bra ($45) and VS Logo Cotton Shine Patch Hiphugger Panty ($15), a bra and underwear set that I highly recommend for anyone who prefers just a touch of glamour but favors comfort above all else. The wireless bra felt smooth and lightweight, while the panties provided just enough coverage underneath the stocking-like bodysuit, without adding any bulk.
Victoria’s Secret Very Sexy Rose Lace Balconette Catsuit Review
As time went on, I grew to appreciate the catsuit more and more – and not just because I was inspired by Bruni’s confidence. It has a stretchy feel to it, making it fit like a second skin. I also love the design details, such as the illusion front panty panel and vertical front seams, which add undeniable sex appeal while maintaining sophistication. The back zipper is also easy to maneuver without any help, and from a style perspective, it looks great with a pair of heels, regardless of how many layers you add on top.
My only concern is that the sweetheart neckline is very low cut and the chest area is wide open, so if you want to layer a bra beneath the built-in cups, it will definitely be visible and may not align exactly how you pictured it. My advice is to try it with a few different bra and panty sets underneath until you find the perfect match for your shape.
Of course, just like with a pair of tights,
