Lovers of fine lingerie around the world wait breathlessly for the unveiling of a new collection from Aubade, and the French luxury label’s S/S 2010 collection is no disappointment.

With 9 distinct lines and two loungewear lines as well, there’s enough in the new Aubade offering to thrill, enchant and surprise the most jaded eyes or the weariest shopper.

This year, Aubade’s army of innovative designers scoured the globe for inspiration. And many of their designs draw upon exotic influences from ancient cultures with a reputation for seduction and intrigue. Leave it to the French to go looking for love – and find it wherever they go.

From the colorful Geisha-tinged influences found in the Romance &#192 Kyoto line to the Arabian Nights theme of the Beauté Persane line, Aubade has assembled a lingerie collection that echoes with the history of human desire and submission.

Aubade employs intricate Leavers lace in several collections to evoke an oriental feel; another line is embroidered to resemble henna tattoos; yet another adopts colors associated with Indian saris. (Look at the small image on the right to get an idea of the detail and workmanship of Aubade’s decorative art!)

Several lines in the new collection deserve special notice:

• the Étoile du Soir line offers 6 pieces in a simple pearl shade, but with lavish guipure embroidery that draws from the décor of Maharajah palaces;
• and the black-and-white Thé Indien line of demure bras and panties in a diaphanous fabric with delicate floral embroidery – achingly elegant.

There’s a huge amount of variety and innovation throughout the Aubade collection (check out the stunning molded cup bandeau in the top photo!), and you can spend forever admiring it. The photos below will give you just a glimpse; hover over the pictures and find the name of the line that each piece belongs to, then head over to Aubade to learn more.

Meticulously planned and flawlessly assembled, the entire Aubade collection is nothing short of magnificent from beginning to end. Take a bow, Aubade, while the rest of us catch our breath.