Bordelle for Homeware

Not long after the company's inception in 2007, founder Alexandra Popa paired up with free lance designer Javier Suarez and the two of them developed the Bordelle bodywear brand from scratch. Rooted in a unique and novel concept of bridging the gap between the creativity of the RTW collections and the comparatively static intimate apparel industry, Bordelle collections are characterized by body-con designs and anchored in a closely guarded proprietary technique that turns customized satin elastic bandages into a blend of lingerie and outerwear featuring a luxury S&M sensuality. The pair started out working from the founder's premises for a struggling period of six months after deciding to share a small design studio in Ladbroke Grove, and it is from here that the fruits of their labour began to materialise. The big break came from a substantial order for Britney Spears' Circus Tour following Alexandra's impromptu meeting in Paris with celebrity stylist William Baker. A week later Selfridges placed an order for an in-store S/S09 Collection launch during London Fashion Week. Both orders were due for delivery in two weeks time, but despite the tight deadline the pair seized on the risk. After many sleepless nights during which Javier single handedly crafted each piece subject to Alexandra's scrutiny and insistence to try on and fit each garment to perfection, both deliveries proved to be a success. At Selfridges couture girdles sold out within 24 hours of hitting the shop floor, and the upward spiral has since continued with additional accounts at eclectic department store Liberty, fashion concept store Luisa via Roma and Coco de Mer's erotic emporium to name but a few. Today Alexandra Popa focuses on growing the business internationally, constantly seeking out new markets, ventures and collaborations while Javier Suarez runs a small creative team as Head Designer of Bordelle. The company has had a phenomenal start to 2010, exceeding a total of 50 international stockists with representation spanning over 30 territories. All activities relating to the business, from Design, Production, PR, Sales and Marketing are proudly carried out in-house by a young, full-time team of 5 and operated from the company's West London atelier.