Is The Apron Bringing Sexy Back?

I have often wondered what it is about a woman in an apron that turns a man on. Perhaps it's the fact that we appear to be domestic goddesses ready to cater to their every need? [Insert 'Oedipus complex' here] Or perhaps it's that we're seconds away from working up a sweat, hell bent on stinking up the place. Ladies, believe it or not, it is probably none of the above.

The "French Maid" style of servant’s dress evolved from typical maids’ black and white afternoon uniforms of the nineteenth century. Because these maids were typically young, subservient, and off limits, a longing for them by the men of the house quickly ensued. Eventually, men began asking their significant others to play dress up, the aprons got shorter and frillier, and apron cosplay took on a life of it's own.

Another more recent apron fetish, "Hadaka apron," refers to an individual, typically a woman, wearing an apron over their otherwise nude or minimally clothed body. The popularity of this fetish originated from a segment of the late night Japanese television show Gilgamesh Night, in which actress Yuki Hitomi would cook while wearing only an apron. (Of course, there is also the PVC apron fetish which requires little explanation. See through plastic, easy to clean -- use your imagination.)

Interestingly, a myriad of subtle "apron inspired" lingerie pieces have been popping up outside of the fetish circles. Not exactly "playing dress up," but definitely intended to push a few naughty buttons with the apron as the focal point of each piece. (Ah, what the heck. I'll wear one if it gets me OUT of cleaning the house!)

Agent Provocateur Maisy Apron Knicker at agentprovocateur.com

Sexy Little Thing Lace Apron Babydolls at victoriassecret.com

The Modern Courtesan Costes Silk French Maid Dress at themoderncourtesan.com

Apron Babydoll Set at doxylingerie.com

Sensual Mystique French Maid Nighty at sensualmystique.com

Leg Avenue Underwire Apron Mini Dress at amazon.com

Huit Lingerie "Brigitte" Apron Skirt at azaleasnyc.com

"Mint Siren" Audrey Silk Waist Apron at fairefroufrou.com

Fredericks Sheer Apron Chemise at brideness.net

For those of you who can't seem to get enough of aprons, be sure to check out The Apronista. (Sorry, no panties. Just lots and lots of really interesting aprons!)