Style-savvy eco-smalls

When times are hard it's always best to minimise your retail therapy sessions to a bare minimum. Or at least hide the  evidence. For this reason we've chosen the perfect garment to stow away at the bottom of your bag - knicksers. And don't worry, these aren't just any knickers... these are eco-friendly knickers, with not the slightest compromise on style and grace. With both Valentines and Spring just around the corner it really is time to say out with the old - and embrace the show-girl inside. Here's our top three eco-smalls of the moment, without a tassle in sight.

First choice for a very 'Doris' Day is the delectable Primrose Knicker from online luvvies Huva Luva. The Yellow Border Anglaise Knicker (pictured) is available with an equally pretty halterneck bra top. Luva Huva was launched by Joanna Kettner whose knickers began life being sold in boutiques in Suffolk and at the Big Chill festival.  Now based in London, Joanna makes every piece by hand using bows, frills and occasionally buttons to create a truly unique piece of underwear. Joanna works as ecologically as possible using end of line fabrics, remnants and cut-offs that would otherwise go to waste. All materials are also sourced locally which means a tiny carbon footprint too. Eco-credentials aside though, these would be an awfully pretty addition to your knicker drawer!

The Primrose knicker from www.luvahuva.co.uk (£20)

Flo & Jo are a Bristol based design pair who have wholly surrendered to the retro fillies within them. Their collection is also hand-made in the UK and some are often limited edition too. We love the burlesque inspired Cancan Frillies. Perfect for pillow fights and flirty nights with red satin frills and polka ribbons adorning the 100% cotton black shorty-style knicker. Perfect for pushing the boat out for a flighty night.

Cancan Frillies from www.flo-jo.co.uk (£35)

For a really luxe-night in, surf on over to the top-drawer ethical underwear site - Eco-Boudoir. There is a range of sublimely beautiful lingerie and nightwear (which we’d love to live in 24-7 if we had the cash). Their own range has a cheeky pair of French knickers with a chiffon print in 100% organic silk. Pre-sale they were £85 but are now a slightly more affordable £45. The style comes in three different patterns, Trimming, Graphic circles and Organic paint. Elegant and sophisticated - not for just playing games.

French Knickers from  www.eco-boudoir.com (sale price, while stocks last £45)   

See all The Friendly Fashionista