At the Brandix India facility in Andhra Pradesh, women are stitching the world’s most fashionable, and expensive, innerwear. These 18,000 women are in India’s single largest producer of Victoria’s Secret products. On their client list are other popular labels as well: Calvin Klein and Marks & Spencer, to name a few.

The lingerie business has, over time, changed the social status of the women, most aged between 18 and 35. Scarred by the battles of domestic violence, starvation and dejection, the job has not only given them financial freedom but earned them respect within the community as well.

Collectively, they ship out millions of panties and bras to the US, Europe, and Japan every month from their work stations. The average salary of the women ranges between Rs 8,000 and Rs 15,000. Almost every week a fresh batch walks in, hoping for a better life. The minimum criteria: Class 7 pass. But there are also intermediates and those with degrees. The facility not only impacts the bottom of the pyramid, women who have just done basic education, but also gives employment to trained professionals in the area of fashion and design. The women staff at the factory are supported through canteen and creche facilities, scholarship schemes, health camps and other such programs.