PICS: Pasties are becoming fashion’s hottest ticket

It’s all over Instagram and red carpets are seeing a growing number of pasties paired with red hot celebrity looks. Whether its underneath something sheer, a cheeky peak out from underneath a blazer or daringly donned sans covering, pasties are this year’s hottest ticket in fashion.

The history of pasties

Pasties are small adhesive coverings for the nipples. They were originally used as a form of modesty in burlesque performances and exotic dancing, and can be traced back to the 1800s when performers began using them as a way to cover their nipples while still appearing risqué. These early pasties were often made of feathers or beads.

They have also become a symbol of female power and in the 1960s, and in 1970s they were used as a way to challenge societal norms and for women to embrace their sexuality.

This led to the creation of the nipple bra also known as the fashion pasty, which was made of silicone or fabric and designed to be worn under clothing as a form of self-expression instead of traditional undergarments.

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Fast forward to the 2000’s and pasties again made an appearance as a protest and girl power fashion statement.

The ‘Free The Nipple’ campaign, still present on social media was a protest against the taboo of the nipple, and threw a punch at censorship.

The campaign also reintroduced the accessory to a new generation. It’s likely this awareness drive, more than any other, fuelled the fashion shift to baring more, in a tasteful, sensual and creative way.

Where to get them

Priscilla Olivier of online retailer sexycurves.co.za stocks one of the most comprehensive pastie design selections in South Africa. She said it’s an emerging trend and that sales of pasties, particularly fashionable designs, have rocketed.

“Burlesque accessories remain an evergreen item but it’s the hearts, the crosses and metallic stars that have captivated on-trend customers.”

Today, pasties are part and parcel of mainstream fashion, with designers and celebrities alike embracing the trend. From crystal-encrusted pasties to those adorned with feathers and sequins, design options are endless.

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How to wear pasties

Pasties are often paired with body chains, crop tops, under-boob tops and high-waisted shorts, creating a bold and daring look that is perfect for a night out.

In high fashion, pasties have become a popular accessory on the runway. Designers such as Jean Paul Gaultier and Alexander McQueen have incorporated pasties into their collections, using them as a way to push the boundaries of traditional fashion thinking and challenge societal norms. Pasties can be worn with anything from tailored blazers to flowing gowns, adding a touch of edginess and sexiness to any outfit.

In everyday life, pasties can replace bras to emphasise natural shape and form underneath clothes and allows anyone to add a touch of self-expression and femininity to an outfit. Fashion pasties for underneath clothes are made of silicone or fabric can be worn under clothing.

Funky pasties can also be worn with sheer or low-cut, off the shoulder risqué tops or unbuttoned shirts with a peek-a-boo sexy effect. It adds a bit of edge and sexiness to almost anything.

Priscilla added: “For a playful touch, pair under boob pasties that are heart shaped. Apply it on the lower half of the breasts, creating a sexy look. Other popular under boob pastie designs include stars, crosses, and butterflies, all of which add a touch of whimsy and playfulness to any outfit”.

Importantly, she noted that wearing pasties is not just about showing skin, it is also about feeling confident and comfortable in your own body.

She said: “For some women, wearing pasties can be a way to feel empowered and embrace their bodies. For others, it can be a way to add a touch of whimsy and playfulness to their outfits”.

Priscilla said: “There is a pasty for every occasion and style. Some pasties even come with tassels or fringe, adding movement and flair to any outfit”.

She added that when wearing pasties, it is important to strike a balance between sexy and classy. One way to achieve this is to pair pasties with sheer or lace tops.

“For example, a black lace bralette paired with black heart-shaped pasties adds a touch of edge to a classic look. A sheer blouse paired with star-shaped pasties is perfect for a night out or a special occasion.”

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