Discover the erogenous theory and learn how you can make it work to your advantage. By Mughni Che Din
I’m sure you are already scratching your head wondering “What are erogenous zones? and how it impacts the way I dress?”
The erogenous zone is a theory coined by fashion historian James Laver (1899-1975) in the ‘30s, which implies “emphasis in dress tends to shift from one erogenous zone of the body to another," To put it layman’s term, it refers to any part of your body that arouses sexual responses from a potential partner.
For example, if a woman wears a crop top, the abdomen or the waist is in focus; and if they are wearing a miniskirt, the legs are highlighted, and so on— you get the idea. According to Laver, the erogenous zones goes through a cycle which lasts around seven years before it moves on to another part of the body, and plays a role for the shifts in fashion trends.
Fast forward to the 21st century, the erogenous zones concept has evolved beyond the idea of a woman dressing-up to arouse or attract a partner. Today, woman exposing their erogenous zones could also be a form of female empowerment, communication or self-expression.
Here are some examples on how you could highlight your erogenous zones this season:
LEGS FOR DAYS
Legs are probably the erogenous zone that most women feel most comfortable to expose. If you think this is for you, consider high-waisted shorts and pair it with a graphic tee, tucked in, to make you look tall and lean.
CROP TILL YOU DROP
Another erogenous zone that is gaining popularity is the midriff as belly-baring ensembles emerged as one of the biggest trends at the recent fashion week. The look, however, is much more sophisticated and elegant compared to the bandeaus in the ‘90s. Just a sliver of skin and not baring it all.
UP IN ARMS
Time to flaunt those arms (and underarms) as they are also one of the hottest erogenous zones on the human body. Whether you opt for sleeveless top or dress, keep the pieces modern and chic to avoid looking frumpy and unkept.
What are your thought on the erogenous zone theory? Does it resonate with you, or do you dress for yourself and not to attract the attention for a potential partner?