Back in December 2011, I reported on the launch of the Playful Promises design competition. They invited students, graduates and those with a flair for fashion to submit designs for their SS13 lingerie collection, called Paradise. I’m delighted to announce that Playful Promises have now revealed a limited edition collection of three lines designed by the competition winners. The collection includes flattering high waist briefs, a retro soft-cup bra, a push-up bra and a longline bra all in dulcet pink tones with oriental influences. Each bra is available in 32A to 36DD (prices from £30), and the briefs come in XS to XL (prices from £15). The sets will be available to buy at playfulpromises.com and in the Playful Promises Boxpark boutique in Shoreditch, from May 2013.
Winners Eva Lai, Carli Pullinger and Pippa Davidson have all witnessed the transformation of their design work from paper to product. I’ll be featuring all three designers on this blog, but today’s post is all about Eva Lai. Eva took inspiration from the 1950s, using used a nude and pink colour palette with a hint of lime green for detailing. Eva is understandably thrilled that the Playful Promises team managed to keep most elements of her design and still produce a wearable set. I, for one, cannot wait to get my hands on it! In anticipation of the launch, I asked Eva a few questions about her design work and plans for the future.
Lori: What made you want to enter the Playful Promises design competition?
Eva: I always been a fan of Playful Promises. I love how the brand has a very strong retro identity and the way that they connect with their consumers. I was in the final year of my fashion contour degree while the competition was being advertised – it was fun to design something completely different to the collection that I’ve been working on. I really enjoy designing and love the challenge of following a very specific brief, creating something suitable for the brand but with my own spin and style to it.
Lori: Where did you study fashion and what did you enjoy most about the course?
Eva: I recently graduated from London College of Fashion in July 2012, with 1st class honours in BA Fashion Contour. I loved my course, we had great tutors and learnt so much; from design and manufacturing to marketing. We also had a lot of of opportunities within the fashion and lingerie industry. For example, I got to showcase my work at an international event for Speedo, at the V&A Museum for the Ballet Russes design perspective, and my graduate collection was featured on vogue.co.uk and tatler.com. LCF provided us with fantastic exposure and connection to the industry.
Lori: What are your plans for the future?
Eva: After I graduated, I’ve spent the past few months starting up a bridal lingerie business called Sambalina, with two business partners. We will be showcasing for the first time at the National Wedding show at the London Olympia in February 2013. I’ve also been working on my own collection for my lingerie label Elai which will be launching this month.
Images via Playful Promises.
Really like the 50s-inspired look and colors. Eva will very likely have a bright future in design. Best wishes. xx