Your Valentine's Day Underwear Can Affect Your Romantic Luck in 2024

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While some call it superstition, the color of your underwear on Valentine's Day can at least usher in the type of romantic luck you hope to cultivate in the year ahead. Renowned fashion psychologist Dr. Dawnn Karen, Professor at FIT, conducted a study on the power of red, surveying 115 people who were viewed differently based on their backgrounds and where on their body (or in their outfit) they wore the shade. While Dr. Karen didn't incorporate underwear specifically, she found the effect of red to be astounding, significantly impacting how passersby interpret someone's levels of promiscuity and attractiveness.

When asked about applying her findings to popular Valentine's Day lingerie colors — including red, pink, black, and white — Dr. Karen calls it a twofold street. "Wearing your underwear as an individual can have the same effects generating self-love as it can generating outwards love towards another," she tells POPSUGAR. Since choosing your bra, briefs, or bodysuit is a personal decision, we asked Dr. Karen to weigh in on the meaning behind all four hues so you can determine your mindset while selecting your underthings on Feb. 14, whether you wish to send a message to yourself or to a partner.

To put it simply, red is the most stimulating and seductive choice, pink is a reflection of kindness, black errs on the side of mystery, and white symbolizes purity in your relationships. But Dr. Karen breaks it down even further, unpacking the rationale behind carefully curating your intimates for the hallmark holiday. Ahead, we've applied her outlook to a shopping roundup of lingerie sets, arranged by color. Whether you're seeking a sporty boy short and bralette combination, a delicate lace teddy, a strappy garter and tights, or a whimsical, floor-length nightgown, there's sure to be a silhouette that speaks to both your intention and plans this Valentine's Day.

Valentine's Day Underwear Color Meaning: Red
forloveandlemons.com

Valentine's Day Underwear Color Meaning: Red

For Love & Lemons Rosa Lace Underwire Bra ($40, originally $99) and For Love & Lemons Rosa Lace Skirt Garter ($30, originally $59)

According to Dr. Karen, red is a stimulant color, particularly in the areas of sexuality and sensuality. Even if you're only wearing red lingerie underneath your clothing, your confidence in these areas will likely shine through, attracting those around you to your passion. Wearing red underwear is said to draw romantic situations toward you, so on Valentine's Day, it's the choice for the least faint of heart.

Red Valentine's Day Underwear: Lace Set
lanebryant.com

Red Valentine's Day Underwear: Lace Set

Lane Bryant Lightly Lined Full Coverage Bra ($55) and Lane Bryant No-Show French Cut Brief Panty ($20)

This lightly lined underwear checks all of our boxes with its adjustable straps, molded cups, and hidden underwire which helps to provide added support up top — regardless of your cup size.

Red Valentine's Day Underwear: Fleur Du Mal Bondage Bodysuit
fleurdumal.com

Red Valentine's Day Underwear: Fleur Du Mal Bondage Bodysuit

Fleur Du Mal Heart Embroidery Bondage Bodysuit ($245)

Fleur Du Mal's cheekiest bodysuit boasts luxurious silk straps that create a bondage-like design without the discomfort.

Valentine's Day Underwear Color Meaning: Pink
savagex.com

Valentine's Day Underwear Color Meaning: Pink

Savage X Fenty See Thru U Unlined Balconette Bra ($50) and Savage X Fenty See Thru U Garter Belt ($45)

Since pink is a slightly lighter shade than red but in the same color family, Dr. Karen associates it with more lightheartedness and playfulness. She calls it a "subdued stimulant" and suggests that you should choose the color if you want to usher in kindness on Valentine's Day.

Pink Valentine's Day Underwear: Skims Fits Everybody Set
skims.com

Pink Valentine's Day Underwear: Skims Fits Everybody Set

Skims Picot Trim Cut Out Scoop Bralette ($38) and Skims Fits Everybody Picot Trim Thong ($18)

The name says it all. This bralette and thong duo is designed to fit every body type while also accentuating curves in the best way.

Pink Valentine's Day Underwear: Else Sporty Bra and Brief
elselingerie.com

Pink Valentine's Day Underwear: Else Sporty Bra and Brief

Else Bare Cut Out Soft Sporty Bra ($110) and Else Bare Brief ($49)

For a see-through option that'll tease a little skin, go for this mesh style in the playful, dusty rose coloring.

Valentine's Day Underwear Color Meaning: Black
agentprovocateur.com

Valentine's Day Underwear Color Meaning: Black

Agent Provocateur Pomona Nightdress ($650, originally $1,295)

Black suggests a more mysterious sort of love, so if you desire to have a deep effect on someone, this is the shade for you on Valentine's Day. Perhaps you're choosing not to expose how deeply you love or care for someone. Or maybe you're just in the mood to harbor your own dark secrets while you spend the night alone.

Black Valentine's Day Underwear: Bombas Bralette and Brief Set
bombas.com

Black Valentine's Day Underwear: Bombas Bralette and Brief Set

Bombas Ribbed Seamless Bralette and Bikini ($55, originally $58)

Looking for a set that's equally comfortable and cute? Look no further than this duo from Bombas. Made from a buttery soft modal, nylon, and elastane blend, you'll want to live in these intimates 24/7.

Black Valentine's Day Underwear: Love Vera Satin Structured Set
lovevera.com

Black Valentine's Day Underwear: Love Vera Satin Structured Set

Love Vera Satin Structured Lace Back Corset Set Black Curvy ($60, originally $150)

This body-hugging corset keeps everything pulled in and feeling secure with its classic hook and eye fastening design.

Black Valentine's Day Underwear: Bluebella Rowan Set
bluebella.us

Black Valentine's Day Underwear: Bluebella Rowan Set

Bluebella Rowan Bustier Black ($50, originally $100) and Bluebella Rowan Black Thong ($15, originally $30)

Treat yourself (or your partner) to a Valentine's Day look that they'll never forget with this black bustier and thong combo. Unlike other styles, the bra is available to shop in a variety of back and cup sizes, so you'll have no problem finding your perfect fit.

Valentine's Day Underwear Color Meaning: White
nordstrom.com

Valentine's Day Underwear Color Meaning: White

Roma Confidential Lace Trim Satin Underwire Bra & Thong Set ($39)

White is associated with purity and is the shade of untainted love on Valentine's Day. Since it's angelic and innocent in nature, it may also bode well with delicate embroidery or sensual materials such as satin. Whether you're just protecting your heart this season or feeling fresh in your journey toward love, these white pieces will fare best.

White Valentine's Day Underwear: Aerie Lace Set
ae.com

White Valentine's Day Underwear: Aerie Lace Set

Aerie Show-Off Lace-Cut Bralette ($21, originally $35) and Aerie Dreamscape Lace Thong Underwear ($9)

Made from a delicate lace material, these pieces ooze an ethereal charm which makes them perfect to wear on your wedding night or while celebrating an anniversary.