Dora Larsen's Colorful Lingerie

Dora Larsen lingerie is so cheery and cheeky, you'll want to wear it way past Valentine's Day.

By Tessa Trudeau

Too often when it comes to underwear, what's pretty isn't also comfortable. But Georgia Larsen, founder of the London-based lingerie line Dora Larsen, has figured out how to make sexy first layers something you'll want to wear on date night and under your work clothes.

"Lingerie isn't just about the bedroom anymore," says Larsen. She explains her take on wearing "special occasion" pieces anytime and why this year, you should skip the basic black or red lace and give unexpected color combos a chance.

You've said that your approach to lingerie is "subtly sexy." What does that mean?

I believe that keeping things simple is sexy when it comes to lingerie. Rather than adding lots of bows, straps or extra layers of fabric, the color and fabrics are strong enough to work on their own. Dora Larsen plays with sexiness by using sheer, delicate fabrics and a fit that is flattering for all.

It should also be comfortable and easily worn with outfits. That's one of my main ambitions when designing—you shouldn't have to sacrifice any of these important aspects of lingerie-wearing to be able to wear "special" lingerie. Our strapless shape, for example, is definitely "special occasion" but also functional enough to wear with cami tops and dresses.

Why did you want to make lingerie more playful and colorful?

Purely selfish reasons, really! I just love colorful lingerie that feels fun to wear. Don't get me wrong, I have my black and nude bras that are essential, but I get truly excited when it comes to colorful lingerie—there's something so satisfying about looking at it.

What are some of the fit considerations you make to ensure your lingerie is comfortable?

I always describe designing lingerie as a bit like being an engineer—there are so many different aspects you have to consider when it comes to fit, especially as we're all designed with very differently shaped bodies. We have to take into consideration the stretch of fabrics, as even the slightest change of elastic quality can have a huge impact on the overall fit of the bra. My favorite laces are usually non-stretch, so we have to ensure the pattern is cut in a way that allows the non-stretch lace to work with the stretchy elastic and mesh. It all sounds very complicated, and it is! Luckily I have many years of experience fitting bras as I was a lingerie buyer before I set up Dora Larsen.

Which pieces would you recommend for Valentine's Day?

I'd have to say the Sabina range. The pop of scarlet red elastic makes it very Valentine's Day appropriate, without being too much. Sabina comes in both an underwire and a padded bralette—both give a lovely shape under tops too, so you're able to wear for the daytime as well as for your date!

How do you wear such colorful lingerie on a day-to-day basis?

Just be brave with it! You can have it hidden, but I think it's more fun to show it off—wear it with a strappy top or a sheer white shirt. It doesn't even matter if anyone can see your lingerie, you know you're wearing something you love.