Ooh, La, La - Luscious Satin Robes

There are few things in this life as soft and sensual as the feel of a satin robe against your skin. The gentle sheen of satin, reflecting the flickering glow of a dozen scented tapers, the scent of petals floating on the limpid blue waters of the spa pool. Whether on a tropical vacation, relaxing at a day spa, or for a romantic evening at home, a satin robe is your best accessory.

Just imagine the luxury of matching robes for you and your special someone, long or short, silk or satin, lined with super-soft cashmere for cozy warmth. Designer cruise-wear robes, his-and-hers spa robes lined with soft, plushy terry-cloth, a wealth of sleek satin lingerie is available for the discerning shopper.

Every lady deserves to have something delicious to slip into - that special satin robe, or sheer, lacy peignoir set that's been whispering your name from the cruise-wear shop's window. Well, now is the time to indulge in something sensual, something you can share with that special someone.

If you're yearning for a romantic getaway - just the two of you... If you have dreams of spending time together in a tropical island paradise... They say there's no time like the present, so stop day-dreaming, and start planning your trip.

There a so many resorts, cruises, and getaways available, it can be difficult to narrow down your choices at first, because everything can seem so exciting. You will need to keep your budget in hand, but with a little research and some careful planning, you are sure to find the perfect, romantic getaway, whether you are jetting off to paradise, cruising the Mediterranean, or driving upstate to a secluded mountain cabin.

Now that the trip is set, you can move on to the truly important planning - what to take with you. Remember to leave room for a pair of comfy robes to snuggle in after a midnight swim, or to warm you in front of a cozy fire. Above all, save some space for a very special outfit or two - something sheer and sexy, or a clingy, provocative lace number.

Red, white, black, or a soft pastel, nothing adds to a gal's or guy's allure like knowing they have "something comfortable to slip into" that makes them look and feel totally hot.

Yes, Virginia - guys like sexy undies, too. And not just on their women-folk.

True, most seem to prefer the satin on their partner, but many men are discovering what we gals have always known.

Some fabrics were meant to be appreciated by bare skin - luscious satin, gossamer chiffon, cobweb-lace trim, delicately ruched silks, these fabrics cry out for our fingers to caress them. We love to feel them next to our bodies.

The sensuous slither of satin across bare skin can send shivers up your spine. Men like shivers, too.

Cruise-wear shops aren't the only place to find great robes and intimate apparel for men. Most department and men's wear stores now carry more of a selection of robes, both long and short, and in a wide variety of materials.

Christmas can be a super time to shop for something special for your special fella, but with a little research - many stores showcase their merchandise online - you can find exactly what you're seeking.

Even if he isn't much for special fabrics, there's hardly a fella alive who wouldn't appreciate the luxury of a full-length, super-absorbent plush-terry robe, or a soft, cuddly, velour, short lounging robe.

Either one is great for kicking back and watching TV on the weekend, especially when there might be a bit of snuggling in the offing.

Some men prefer cotton, another unexpectedly luxurious-feeling fabric. A high quality brushed cotton can feel surprisingly sumptuous next to your skin. And you thought old-fashioned night gowns had nothing to offer...

Fine cotton, for bed clothes or night clothes, adds a touch of luxury to your bedroom. Sheets in 400 count cotton, now quite widely available, are so soft and yet so sturdy, you'll wonder how you ever slept on anything else.

As well, cotton is breathable, so that it keeps you warm and cozy in the winter, yet is so deliciously light and cool for the summer's heat. Cotton sleepwear and robes are available in almost every kind of finish from the softest, brushed cotton, an to ultra-soft, ultra-high thread count fabric.

Once the preserve of the wealthy, pure cotton is now widely available in a variety of weights and finishes. Often, cotton was blended with man-made fibers to increase ease of care (no-iron finishes). Now, finishes are being discovered that offer the same easy-care without adulterating the pure cotton fibers.

This, plus an increase in cotton for specialty and designer fabrics, has led to a resurgence of interest in cotton fabrics for not only day-time wear, sleep wear, and bedding, but to its increased use as a decorator fabric.

Whether you're looking for something to spice up that romantic weekend you've been planning, or simply seeking the most comfortable, luxurious terry-cloth lounger for a day at the spa, there are so many lovely choices available it's hard not to want one of each.

If you're saving for your honeymoon or for a romantic vacation à-deux, remember to leave a bit in the budget for some super sexy cruise wear to set the romantic mood on board ship, or in your private cabana. Imagine - you and your special someone in the intoxicating, tropical moonlight, strolling hand in hand along the white sands, relaxing beside a crystal pool, or sharing a glass of champagne while the jacuzzi froths and fizzes around you. What could be more perfect?

© 2010, Elle Fredine, All rights reserved