When I first saw Brulee Lingerie's collections last year, I was hooked by variety of pieces made in gorgeous combinations of mesh, silk & super-soft jersey, topped off by small details that accentuate them perfectly. This year's spring/summer collection comes in soft pastels so muted that you'll want to make these pieces a part of your everyday wardrobe. Brulee designer Kristian Giambi generously answered some questions about what inspires her and her own favorite pieces.
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(l) Boudoir Collection Corset Soft Bra & Knicker in Blush/Black, (r) Boudoir Collection Bodysuit in Mint/Black
Pretty Little Underthings: Your line is so sleek and elegant, with perfect details. What inspired you to start it?
Kristian Giambi: I wasn’t finding the type of lingerie and loungewear I wanted. So I was inspired to design undergarments that women would feel feminine and beautiful in, without the frills and lace. Classic pieces that are glamorous and have an edgy twist. That modern femininity is so sexy to me.
Kristian Giambi, designer & founder of Brulee Lingerie
PLU: What are some of the challenges you’ve had to overcome to launch your line?
KG: My personal life is my professional life these days. I’m focused on building the brand and increasing sales.
PLU: Would you say there’s a “Brulee woman” you’re designing for? If so, who is she?
KG: I would love for any woman, exuding strength, inner beauty and confidence to wear Brulee.
(l) Classic Collection Soft Bra & Boyshort in Cream, (r) Classic Collection Soft Bra & Legging in Black
PLU: Two of my favorite pieces are the Boudouir collection bodysuit and the Vamp collection soft bras. What are some of your personal favorites from your collection?
KG: It is hard to just pick a few things… but I love the boy shorts, the fit is sooo amazing! I have loved wearing my Vamp Cami’s lately. I also can’t take off a new cotton bodysuit that has not yet been released for retail. It will be available next season (Fall/Winter 2011) and I think Brulee fans will love it too.
KG: Some of the pieces I design have some versatility. For example I like pairing the bodysuit with skinny jeans or a pencil skirt and jacket during the day, then simply removing the jacket for instant transition into evening & night.
(l) Vamp Collection Bodysuit in Blush, (r) Vamp Collection Corset Soft Bra & Boyshort in Blush
PLU: What can Brulee’s fans look for in the S/S 2011 collection?
KG: The color palette is beautiful and fresh. It promises to leave everyone wanting to know what is underneath…
PLU: What advice would you give to other aspiring designers?
KG: Education is important, but beyond that I believe finding a mentor in the business who can offer their insight is invaluable.
(l) Noir Collection Teddy in Cream/Black, (r) Noir Collection Camisole & Pant in Black/Cream
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View all of Brulee's pieces online.
