As you embark on your Valentine’s Day shopping this year, skip the big-box stores, because we’re here to let you in on a secret of our own: These offerings from three Colorado companies are sure to elicit just the reaction you’re looking for from the object of your affection.

For A Laugh

Shinesty’s mission is to “make the world take itself less seriously.” When its founders launched the company in 2014, that meant ridiculous, theme-party-ready suits. Over the past couple of years, however, they’ve leaned into equally absurd—but surprisingly well-constructed—undergarments. Whether you choose the new-for-2022 design with whipped cream and a (strategically placed) cherry or a classic pattern, such as red-and-black plaid, it’s easy to buy boxer briefs ($26) or bikini bottoms ($20) that match your partner’s. If that doesn’t elicit a giggle, Shinesty’s irreverent marketing copy will: The briefs’ patented Ball Hammock promises to “welcome you into the world of scrotal serenity.”

5280 February 2022
More From The Issue

For A Proposal

An elegant pair of socks from Tatiana’s Threads are perfect for warming up the cold feet of a soul mate in need of a little nudge. Owner Tatiana Zaykovskaya also makes cute bralettes and underwear, but her stockings (from $20)—crafted from bits of lace, mesh, velvet, and even sequins—are her bestsellers. After graduating from fashion school in San Diego during the Great Recession, the Russia native started making lingerie using leftover pieces of fabric. More than a decade later, Zaykovskaya’s e-commerce success, mostly through Etsy, allowed her to make a pandemic move to Durango, where she now runs her one-woman operation.

For A Dalliance

Most undergarments are destined to hide under clothing. That would be a tragic fate for La Luna Intimates’ silk-and-lace bras ($100), panties ($69), and garter belts ($59). Denverite Hollis Hodges taught herself to sew bralettes and panties while recovering from a concussion in November 2020, and the experience inspired her to start selling the luxe lingerie she sources from Eastern Europe this past June. Hodges selects the colors, lace patterns, and materials used to create custom items like her Vixen collection, launched in October. Not only are the bras and garters adjustable, but the thongs also have straps with slides to ensure a perfect, confidence-boosting fit—and what’s sexier than that?