It's that time of year when the layers start piling on and the thermal pants and 100-wash grey bras get a regular airing.

After all, when you are kitted out in two T-shirts, a polo neck, woolly jumper, coat, scarf, hat, gloves etc, the last thing on your mind is selecting a snazzy/sexy matching bra-and-knickers set.

But winter has a habit of dragging its heels, and lingering over luscious lingerie during this bittersweet period is a guaranteed pick-me-up. Or should I say perk-me-up.

So eyes down.

According to Lepel, bosoms are definitely in, or rather out, as shown in this winter's figure-hugging range.

Whether you are buxom serving wench or Kate Moss material, the brand promises beautiful lingerie that fits comfortably, looks sensational and is affordable.

It's Le Plunge gel-filled bra is designed to give maximum cleavage and comes in a range of colours, including rich aubergine.

For the larger-busted lady, Lepel offers an extensive size range up to E and F cups in selected styles, available in shades of lavender, chocolate and fuchsia.

For the exhibitionist, the Henna range cleverly mirrors fine body paint and Sheer Delight is a simple and soft collection of bras, briefs and vests in claret or a geometric print of khaki, claret and nude.

Blushing brides can take their pick from the special bridal collection of luxurious Swiss embroidered styles.

Lepel's ranges are available from most department stores and independent retailers - call 01159 468 425 for stockists.

Supermodel Caprice has become a bit of an old hand at this lingerie business and her third exclusive range, available at Debenhams, is a saucy, sultry affair.

Dark reds and plums are prominent, as well as black highlighted with platinum.

Her Bold Lace range is available in black with platinum or plum with pink.

The padded bra, priced £22, with a double strap comes with matching high-leg brief or thong, or alternatively, a body with a key hole black and mesh panel costs £30.

Thongs and briefs cost £10.

The Embroidered Lace collection in deep red or black features a padded balcony bra, (£22), brief or thong, (£10), and lace body with thong back, (£30).

But if you can pull it off, a corset will ultimately go that extra mile.

"It's sexy because it's not something you see every day," said local barman Ken Wiltshire.

"It's understandable that granny pants have to come out on laundry day, but even if you are in a long-term relationship, it's important for women, and men, to make that effort.

"A corset borders on the realm of fantasy and frankly, it wouldn't stay on for long."

Caprice's corsets are available with matching thong, in red or black, with fully-functioning lace-up back detail and boning with hook-and-eye fastening at the front.

The corset is priced at £40, the thong at £8.

Sizes come in 32A-D, 34A-DD, 36A-DD and 38B-D, and knickers, sizes 8-18.

The stockist enquiry number is 0207 408 4444.

Locally, In Stark Contrast, which has shops in Ledbury and Tewkesbury, has recently expanded its range to include lingerie, swimwear, cruisewear and nightwear.

Lingerie from Rigby and Peller, Lejaby, Fantasie, Barbara, Pikuk and Sloggi are all available at the Tewkesbury branch in the High Street from December 1.

Staff at the shops are specially trained by top lingerie designers Rigby and Peller to correctly measure and fit bras, with this season's fashions including exquisite lace and sensual colours, from AA to J cups.

For the chance to win a beautiful set, get along to In Stark Contrast during the line's opening week, and gentlemen, the shop offers a free gift wrapping service.

So, ladies, when you fling off those winter woollies, be prepared to stir the embers and really fuel that fire.