Your Valentine's Day Underwear Can Affect Your Romantic Luck in 2026

1 week ago 14

Updated on Jan 27, 2026 at 9:00 AM

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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, former 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 says. 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 number, or a strappy bodysuit, there's sure to be a silhouette that speaks to both your intention and plans this Valentine's Day. Why not embark on some self-gifting to kick off the year on the right foot?

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Our Favorite Valentine's Day Underwear:

Experts Featured in This Article

Dr. Dawnn Karen is a former professor at FIT, founder of the Fashion Psychology Institute, and fashion psychologist.

Red

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.

Thistle and Spire Minna Playsuit ($118)

If you're more of a one-piece person, this intricate lace design with hook closures has adjustable straps and is comfortably lightweight. The ruby shade is right on-trend for this time of year, though you can also shop it in black and white — so you've got options.

Pink

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.

Lilosy Embroidered Mesh Sheer Lingerie Set ($20)

When we find an affordable bestseller on Amazon in the category we're shopping, we don't gatekeep. Such is the case with this sheer mesh lingerie set, which comes in an overwhelming amount of colors and sizes 3XS-5XL. Note that it should be handwashed, like most lingerie, to protect the delicate adornments.

Lounge Camellia Bodysuit ($110)

This mesh cutout bodysuit features delicate floral embroidery, adjustable straps, and a couple of adorably-placed mini rosebud bows. It has a G-string back and underwire at the bust, but no padding. Wear it underneath a cozy robe or with a pair of sweats, depending on the type of evening you're having.

Black

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.

White

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 or lace. Whether you're just protecting your heart this season or feeling fresh in your journey toward love, these white pieces will fare best.

Intimately Last Dance Lace Longline Bralette ($38) and Intimately Last Dance Lace Boyshorts ($16)

For the bohemian queen who loves ivory, this set is a no-brainer. Retailing right around $50, it'll never go out of style. The briefs are sheer and made from a stretchy lace material, providing full-bottom coverage. The scalloped trim on both the top and bottom is what makes this set feel so whimsical and elegant — and if you shop the bra, you'll love the breezy open back at the hook, too.

Skims Stretch Lace Scoop Neck Bodysuit ($68)

Whether you wear this bodysuit on its own or layer it under your clothes or pajamas, you're sure to feel ridiculously cute in the ivory cherry print. This piece has a thong back, cotton gusset, and adjustable straps for a secure fit. It's available in sizes XXS-4X, and while a touch less cute in our opinion, the same style also comes in simple black lace.

For Love & Lemons Ella Top ($119) and For Love & Lemons Ella Cheeky Panty ($49)

We know, these panties are supreme. Complete with eyelet ruffle trims, rose 'love' embroidery, and a black bow, they're honestly a must have. Of course, the matching airy cotton tank makes them even more appealing, especially if you wear the top with jeans and only you know you've got the matching underwear underneath.

Sarah Wasilak (she/her) is the PS Shopping Director. With plenty of experience in the fashion industry and over 11 years as an editor at the brand, she enjoys writing and creating social videos across the lifestyle, health, and fitness categories. She is the host of the "Dinner for Shoes" podcast and has bylines at InStyle, Elle, Refinery29, Who What Wear, Elite Daily, Byrdie, and The Quality Edit.

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