The Architecture of Lingerie

I was lucky enough to attend an event last week that had me surrounded by talented architects. I thought I would be the one educating them on things like fashion and lingerie but it turned out the other way around. The conversations that were formed intrigued me and were based around the similarities between an architect and a lingerie designer. The art form as well as the technical side both professions must achieve in their grand designs. The aesthetic imagery versus the viable creation they must then be able to produce. This conversation enraptured me.

It made me automatically think about the label Nichole de Carle from London. The theme for her ongoing classic Opal collection, was actually iconic architecture from around the world. The range drew inspiration from the Duomo in Milan, Westminster Abbey in London, the Chrysler building in New York and Chateau de Villette in Paris. She created a lingerie image that was so unique to other labels out there, combining the lines of the female form meshed with the sophistication and detail of these intricate structures. The strap work created a frame like a building would use and the spaces were then filled with feminine yet strong silks. Ridiculously stunning and my current items of desire...

Westminster

Villette

Talking to someone in a different field and of a different sex gave me a view of lingerie I hadn't seen in awhile. I do admire the construction of some more bespoke brands but I don't often look at designs as something they worked days, weeks or months on. I see it as "Ohh thats pretty, I want it!" I don't stop often enough to think about the designer, their vision and the work that went into the garment. From the original drawing board sketches to the complete/for sale lingerie. I realise it has been far too long since I've designed and just dabbling now and then isn't enough to keep up my appreciation in lingerie design and the work it actually involves. I promise to appreciate my pieces a little more now. Original designs are so rare nowadays and the innovative ideas should be appreciated for the art work they are.

 

Now more than ever I need to own something from this label. I look forward to finally seeing these garments in person next month.

Are you an architect? What do you think of buildings as inspiration for lingerie?