Future of Workwear Inspired Lingerie in China

Forget frilly lace and flirty bows—China’s lingerie scene is getting a serious upgrade, and it’s taking cues from the boardroom. Welcome to the era of workwear-inspired lingerie, where power suits meet silk slips and corporate chic collides with bedroom elegance. This isn’t just a fashion fad—it’s a cultural shift driven by modern Chinese women who want comfort, confidence, and style, whether they’re closing deals or unwinding at home.

Chinese consumers, especially urban professionals aged 25–40, are redefining intimacy wear. They’re not looking for overly sexy pieces; they want something functional, minimalist, and empowering—just like their work outfits. According to a 2023 report by Euromonitor International, the Chinese lingerie market hit $18.7 billion, with demand for ‘comfort-first’ and ‘lifestyle-integrated’ designs growing at 12% year-on-year. Among these, workwear-inspired styles now account for nearly 23% of premium segment sales—a number expected to rise to 35% by 2026.

So what exactly defines this trend? Think tailored bras with structured cups resembling blazers, high-waisted briefs that echo pencil skirts, and color palettes dominated by charcoal, ivory, and deep navy instead of red or black. Brands like NEIWAI (内外) and Ubras are leading the charge, launching capsule collections that blur the line between office wear and intimate apparel.

Why Workwear Aesthetics Are Reshaping Lingerie

The answer lies in lifestyle evolution. More Chinese women are climbing corporate ladders, working remotely, or running their own businesses. Their clothing choices reflect a desire for versatility and self-expression. As one Shanghai-based marketing executive put it: “I want my lingerie to make me feel strong, not just sexy.”

This mindset has fueled demand for pieces that transition seamlessly from day to night. Enter the ‘second-skin suit’ concept—lingerie sets designed with clean lines, breathable fabrics like modal and TENCEL™, and ergonomic support. These aren’t meant to be hidden; they’re made to be seen, layered under sheer blouses or worn solo during Zoom calls.

Market Breakdown: Top Trends in Workwear-Inspired Lingerie (2024)

The data speaks volumes: functionality and emotional resonance are winning over traditional sex appeal. In fact, a 2024 survey by TalkingData found that 74% of female respondents preferred lingerie that ‘makes them feel powerful,’ while only 29% prioritized ‘attracting a partner.’

The Role of Social Media & KOLs

Douyin and Xiaohongshu have become launchpads for this trend. Key Opinion Leaders (KOLs) like @StyleByVivian and @OfficeQueen_Luna regularly post styling videos pairing tailored bras with oversized shirts, normalizing the idea of ‘power lingerie.’ Hashtags like #职场内衣 (#WorkwearLingerie) have amassed over 480 million views on Xiaohongshu alone.

One viral campaign by Ubras featured real female entrepreneurs wearing their workwear-inspired lingerie beneath business attire, emphasizing strength and autonomy. The campaign boosted sales by 41% in Q1 2024.

What’s Next?

The future is hybrid. Expect more smart fabrics, modular designs, and gender-neutral options entering the space. As boundaries between work, life, and self-care dissolve, lingerie will continue evolving into a form of personal armor—one that empowers from within.

For brands, the message is clear: align with values, not just vanity. For women, it’s about choice—choosing comfort, control, and quiet confidence. And if that means your favorite ‘suit’ is actually a bra and panty set, well, welcome to the new China cool.