Velda Lauder

Interview with Velda Lauder

Velda Lauder has given corsetry a new, raw, ultramodern arrival onto the current European catwalks. Sourcing inspiration from the glitzy glamorous curves of the Marilyn Monroes and Sofia Lorens of Hollywood, and mixing it all up with bold, radiant fabrics often bejeweled with Swarovski crystals, Velda has created a perfect explosion in the corset’s revival. Although known to be restrictive, painful and often the cause of certain maladies such as miscarriages and fainting fits, the corset has also been known to remedy back injuries.  After a serious car accident, Andy Warhol had to resort to wearing one permanently to support the structure of his spinal area.  Luckily for us, Velda’s corsets take the pain of beautifying oneself away, as they are designed to be snug and comfy, and yet still achieve that sleek silhouette of the voluptuous look as intended.

They have been worn by various celebrities, such as burlesque model Dita Von Teese, Heidi Klum, Rebecca Loos, Charlotte Church and several other ‘hourglass’ devotees. UKADAPTA managed to speak with Miss Lauder as she kindly shed some light on her personal style:

- Can you tell us a little bit about yourself as a fashion designer and your brand?

V: I create beautiful handmade corsets in unique and exquisite fabrics that shape & sculpt the waist, reducing it by four inches comfortably, without oppressing a woman's ribs or hips.

- Can you tell us a little bit about your collections?

V: My love of ‘40s and ‘50smovies has shaped my fascination with curve-creating garments, and led me to the philosophy: ‘The gift of the corset is its ability to free the inner strength and beauty of a woman in an instant’.

- What inspired you to do a jewel collection?  Can you tell us a bit about the detail?

V: The Illumination of the goddess within.

- What actually made you get into designing?

V: In the family, my mother worked for several top Irish designers, e.g. John Rocha. I began my creative working life as a fashion coordinator and display artist for a prestigious company in Ireland. I also became a performance artist and worked with a designer on my first collection in neoprene rubber. I then moved to London opened my first shop called Pagan Metal, selling cyber club wear with a fetish twist. Then came the club ‘Fantastic,’ a fusion of live music, art and fetish. I then left ‘fantastic’ to my business partner so I could focus on my design work developing my corset skills. The company became Velda Lauder Designs and the corsets became very popular with celebrities and performers. Recently we have renamed the business Velda Lauder Corsetiere with a new logo.  The new name expresses our corset expertise and dedication. 

- How would you describe your style?

V: Classic yet futuristic, empowering and sexy, unique.

- Do you have any favourite materials/fabrics and/or special techniques you enjoy using?

V: Sculptural fabrics, I love the structure Issey Miyake achieves with fabrics and the sculptural cut of Thierry Mugler.

- What/who would you say is your strongest source of inspiration?

V: As above

- What are your opinions on the current Europe fashion scenes?

V: What is happening in Paris with British designers is very exciting, as the classic skill of the Parisienne couture house is blending with the maverick talent of British designers to create something radical and immaculate.

- Where is your favourite place to relax or have a day off?

V: I love yoga, travel and getting out into nature.

- What are your plans and goals for the near and distant future?

V: To expand the range into Lingerie and to introduce more classic taylored lines.

- Do you have some words of wisdom for any young designers and our readers?

V: Stay true to your vision, believe in yourself and your concept, gain as much practical experience possible and go for it.

Website : http://www.veldalauder.co.uk/

Written by Nashrin Azad

Photographs to be credited to Rod Howe