In our mind, there are few things quite so wonderful as investing in a new piece of lingerie: something beautiful, something personal – a love-letter to ourselves. And what better excuse than Valentine’s Day?
Enter Dora Larsen: a rainbow-tinted treasure trove of lace and satin. The brand has given the world of intimates a technicolour twist, and for us, it was adoration at first sight. We’ll freely admit we’ve fallen head over heels for the colourful combinations (honey yellow and lilac, anyone?).
What's more, the designs are as inclusive as they are vibrant, to be loved and worn by all body types, shapes, and sizes. It’s a subject close to our hearts, too, and all the more pertinent when we think about treating ourselves to a little love (and maybe a self-bought Valentine's gift) this year.
On this note, we decided to sit down with the woman behind the designs, Georgia Larsen, to ask how she likes to share the care when Valentine’s Day rolls around. For Georgia, self-love is more than just a catchy moniker. From baths to self-respect, music to resolutions, we found out what makes the designer’s heart full…
Valentine's With...
Georgia Larsen
The lingerie designer on love, lace,
longevity – and listening to podcasts.
Could you tell us a little bit about how Dora Larsen came to be?
As an ex-lingerie buyer, I decided to start Dora Larsen as I felt there was a clear gap in the market for exciting lingerie that was still comfortable enough to wear every day. Something that would stand the test of time. Back then, all I could see was overtly sexy black-and-red styles, or, the total opposite: nude basics. I wanted to create something that felt easy, empowering and fun to wear.
You’ve spoken about the importance of inclusivity, particularly in the world of lingerie; why is this so important?
It’s quite simple, really – I don’t want to sell a brand that makes customers feel we don’t care about them. At the end of the day, only showing one type of model is totally unrelatable – we come in different shapes and sizes, after all! – and I feel it can give off a negative message. That’s never been my vibe.
As an ex-lingerie buyer, I decided to start Dora Larsen as I felt there was a clear gap in the market for exciting lingerie that was still comfortable enough to wear every day. Something that would stand the test of time. Back then, all I could see was overtly sexy black-and-red styles, or, the total opposite: nude basics. I wanted to create something that felt easy, empowering and fun to wear.
You’ve spoken about the importance of inclusivity, particularly in the world of lingerie; why is this so important?
It’s quite simple, really – I don’t want to sell a brand that makes customers feel we don’t care about them. At the end of the day, only showing one type of model is totally unrelatable – we come in different shapes and sizes, after all! – and I feel it can give off a negative message. That’s never been my vibe.
From idea inception to final touches, which part of the making process are you most fond of?
I love deciding on the colours; it’s the most meditative and creative bit of all.
Part of what makes your pieces so beautiful are their vibrancy. What is it about working with colour that you love?
I love how colour isn’t about following trends. It’s just instinctual: you can look at a shade, or a combination of shades, and you just “know” if it’s right.
I love deciding on the colours; it’s the most meditative and creative bit of all.
Part of what makes your pieces so beautiful are their vibrancy. What is it about working with colour that you love?
I love how colour isn’t about following trends. It’s just instinctual: you can look at a shade, or a combination of shades, and you just “know” if it’s right.
On the topic of love, Valentine’s Day is on the horizon. How do you like to celebrate?
I’m very boring I’m afraid – probably staying at home and watching a film! I’ve always cringed a bit at the thought of Valentine’s Day, and I remember hating it when I was single; I think we should re-write the narrative around it. In my opinion, it should be a day to celebrate the love between everyone, not just couples.
Do you have any Valentine’s Day traditions you find yourself turning to every year?
It’s less of a tradition, and more a frame of mind: I try to spend time surrounded by people I love, and practice acts of kindness for myself. A relaxing bath and a good podcast is always a good place to start!
I’m very boring I’m afraid – probably staying at home and watching a film! I’ve always cringed a bit at the thought of Valentine’s Day, and I remember hating it when I was single; I think we should re-write the narrative around it. In my opinion, it should be a day to celebrate the love between everyone, not just couples.
Do you have any Valentine’s Day traditions you find yourself turning to every year?
It’s less of a tradition, and more a frame of mind: I try to spend time surrounded by people I love, and practice acts of kindness for myself. A relaxing bath and a good podcast is always a good place to start!
You’re a big champion of self-love. What are some of the ways you practice this?
I preach, but I can be bad at practicing. I need to get better at it. I often end up in a “hole” of overworking (and just being over-busy in general...). That said, the thing I love most is listening to my favourite music whilst walking through the park early in the morning, before anyone else gets there. Taking time to just “be” is the best form of self-love. I also think having the courage to be honest with yourself and honest with others is an act of self-love. That’s one of my resolutions for this year.
I preach, but I can be bad at practicing. I need to get better at it. I often end up in a “hole” of overworking (and just being over-busy in general...). That said, the thing I love most is listening to my favourite music whilst walking through the park early in the morning, before anyone else gets there. Taking time to just “be” is the best form of self-love. I also think having the courage to be honest with yourself and honest with others is an act of self-love. That’s one of my resolutions for this year.
If your lingerie was a feeling, what would it be?
Excitement.
And finally, if you had to choose, which one of your designs is currently the token of your heart’s affection?
Oh, hard question! It would probably be the Orla Triangle Bra and High Waisted Knickers. I love the shape of the top (as someone with a smaller chest, it’s just perfect!), and the colours are easy enough for every day.
Excitement.
And finally, if you had to choose, which one of your designs is currently the token of your heart’s affection?
Oh, hard question! It would probably be the Orla Triangle Bra and High Waisted Knickers. I love the shape of the top (as someone with a smaller chest, it’s just perfect!), and the colours are easy enough for every day.