Dita von Teese launched her lingerie collection into Harrods with its signature vintage style of corsets, exquisite bustiers, balconette bras, fitted chemises, high waisted briefs, knickers and coordinating suspenders. On her whistlestop visit, Underlines Magazine caught up with her to find our her ambitions with the new collection.
Dita has a lot to say about the new collection and she is completely hands-on in terms of the design and the direction of the label. “I was born in Michigan and then moved to Orange County and one of my first ever jobs when I was 15 was working in a lingerie store. I begged the owner to let me work there and ended up as a stock and sales girl, I absolutely loved it and worked as a bra fitter for 5 years. I absolutely admit I have been a ‘lingerie snob’ since then!.”
It is clear that to Dita her development of her range since it started in 2013 is much more than a celebrity ‘hobby’. “For years I have been collecting vintage lingerie, fashion magazines and old books which provide me with much of the inspiration for the collection. I believe in creating everyday moments of beauty and my lingerie collection reflects this by providing function, fit and beauty without compromise.”
And the new collection is definitely a progression from the original ranges with more luxurious fabrics and trimmings but at prices that are still accessible for well-designed garments (bras start at about £30 with bottoms £30-£40). The Park Avenue range in 100% silk is priced at approximately £90 and the loungewear which will be introduced later in the year will retail around £150.00.
Unashamedly glamorous just like Dita herself, look out for strappy detailing, velvet ribbons, eyelash lace and superfine mesh reinforcing the 1950’s glamour girl but with contemporary touch and fit. As well as her well known Dahlia range, there is a range of exciting colours – deep magenta, cornflower blue, navy and turquoise alongside crème caramel and antique black – in satin and French silk. Cup sizes range from A to F cup and each range has at least 3-4 underwear shapes.
“Lingerie has always been integral to my feeling of femininity and it is a great way to express yourself… you can change it easily depending on your mood. I am delighted I have the chance to work with more luxurious materials but am still proud of all the designs that have been created under my name.”
This is definitely an enduring love affair for Dita.
