Coco Chanel once proclaimed, I don't do fashion, I am fashion, and in one line she established a mantra for a handful of women who revolutionized the concept of femininity in the mid-20th century.

Since its origins when Eve first donned an undergarment, lingerie has functioned as the ultimate tease in ladies' attire, a sartorial statement of style, elegance, provocation - even malice.

This parade of award-winning portraits spotlights more than 500 women from around the world and all different walks of life.