7 minute read
SCARLETT GASQUE VINTAGE GLAMOUR
Interview by QP STAFF WRITER
In the world of luxury lingerie, SCARLETT GASQUE stands as a beacon of vintage elegance. Founded by Chloé Rogers in 2020, the brand breathes new life into the allure of 1940s and 50s burlesque, infusing traditional styles with a modern edge.
Celebrating diversity and empowerment lies at the heart of SCARLETT GASQUE . With a captivating blend of glamour and wit, the brand invites individuals of all backgrounds to embrace their unique beauty boldly. From coy charm to daring allure, SCARLETT GASQUE caters to those who live unapologetically.
Chloé Rogers , the brand's visionary, draws inspiration from her academic journey at Central Saint Martins, where she explored the history of fashion and feminine politics within burlesque. Each SCARLETT GASQUE piece is meticulously crafted not just to adorn the body, but to empower the soul.
Chloe, could you share with us how your time studying away from home influenced your design aesthetic and the vision behind SCARLETT GASQUE ?
Leaving the city I grew up in definitely had an impact on me creatively. It pushed me outside of my comfort zone. Living in a city like London, you meet such creative people from all walks of life that I find incredibly inspiring.
What drew you specifically to the realm of lingerie, robes, and corsets, as opposed to more traditional fashion avenues?
I've always been captivated by the allure of classic films, particularly the fashion they showcased. There's something timeless about the silhouettes of the 1940s and 1950s that I find fabulous! The emphasis on a graceful hourglass figure, with a cinched waist and voluminous skirt, has always drawn me in. I found myself drawn to recreating this look through experimentation with corsets. Over time, what began as curiosity evolved into a bit of an obsession. I explored further into the realm of undergarments and discovered the beauty of lingerie. The way these garments made me feel was truly incredible. I fell in love with the confidence they gave me, and I knew I wanted to create my own one day.
Can you take us back to the moment or experience that sparked the creation of SCARLETT GASQUE?
I've always been a collector of sorts, with my interests/collections evolving as I grew. However, in my later teenage years, I became enamoured with corsetry, and I just knew I had to create something within that realm. From there, everything fell into place, and my brand naturally evolved from my passion.
Starting your own business is no small feat. Can you tell us about some of the biggest challenges you encountered in establishing SCARLETT GASQUE and how you overcame them?
Effectively marketing lingerie products online while navigating advertising regulations can be tricky. Building brand awareness on digital demands creativity in showcasing what we can and cannot display within such guidelines.
Chloe, what advice would you offer to other young designers who are dreaming of starting their own fashion brands?
Take your time! Give yourself the space to experiment, learn, and grow. You aren’t going to get it perfect in your first collection. Each creation is a step forward, just trust the process.
Sustainability and ethical practices are becoming increasingly important in fashion. How does SCARLETT GASQUE integrate these values into its designs and production processes?
We are a luxury company that prioritizes quality & craftsmanship, not mass production. Our pieces are designed to be cherished and worn for years to come.
Lingerie and intimate apparel often carry connotations of empowerment. How does SCARLETT GASQUE empower its wearers through its designs?
At SCARLETT GASQUE, we believe that feeling confident and comfortable in one's own skin is the ultimate form of empowerment. That's why we craft each piece to not only flatter the body but also to make the wearer feel empowered and beautiful. We see lingerie as more than just undergarments; it's a way for individuals to express their inner strength and beauty, empowering them to feel unstoppable in every aspect of their lives.
Your brand is known for its unique and daring designs. How do you balance pushing creative boundaries with maintaining commercial appeal?
Lingerie is something we wear every day, although I do think it can turn into an afterthought for most people. Crafting pieces that people eagerly reach for is my passion. Vibrant colors, bows, frills, delicate lace—I adore them all. Yet, comfort and a flattering fit are absolute musts. It's about striking that perfect balance—being irresistibly alluring yet cosy for everyday wear; an item you'll continuously crave!
With the prevalence of fast fashion, what do you think sets SCARLETT GASQUE apart and makes it a timeless brand?
Our products are high quality, and we prioritize the perfect fit. Every detail is meticulously attended to in the creation and release of our products. Our lingerie is created to endure, designed to be cherished for years to come: a timeless investment in your wardrobe.
The fashion industry is evolving rapidly, especially with the rise of digital platforms. How does SCARLETT GASQUE navigate this ever-changing landscape?
We understand the importance of staying connected with our customers in the digital age; creating a community online is so important. Establishing a vibrant online community allows us to cultivate meaningful connections with our customers, providing a platform for open dialogue. By actively interacting with our customers and listening to their feedback, we gain invaluable insights that inform our design processes to drive continuous improvement.
Can you recall a moment when you saw someone wearing your designs and felt particularly proud or fulfilled?
One evening, a close friend of mine was dining out when she sent me a photo of a girl wearing our 'Pearl Gasque Corset' at the same restaurant. It was only a couple of weeks after our launch, so this moment was incredibly exciting for me.
Body positivity and inclusivity are gaining momentum in fashion. How does SCARLETT GASQUE cater to a diverse range of body types and sizes?
We prioritize our customers' comfort and satisfaction, recognizing that everyone is unique and "one size fits all" doesn't apply. This is particularly evident in our sizing options—S, M, and L can often be limiting. That's why we've introduced a '+ size' range to our signature corsets. With this range, you can find your perfect fit, including the right cup measurement. This ensures that our corsets fit like a glove, leaving you feeling sexier than ever!
Luxury means different things to different people. How does SCARLETT GASQUE redefine luxury in the context of intimate apparel?
We elevate the standard of luxury in our brand through craftsmanship, very luxurious fabrics (such as crafting our corsets with 100% silk), delicate lacework; and offering designs that are versatile and fit like a glove.
Your brand exudes elegance and sophistication. How do you strike a balance between sophistication and sensuality in your designs?
It's all about discovering that harmonious intersection where tradition meets modernity. By blending classic silhouettes with contemporary flair and feminine accents that accentuate the body; revealing subtle hints of skin, one can effortlessly evoke both elegance and sensuality in equal measure.
Representation and diversity are important topics in fashion. How does SCARLETT GASQUE contribute to the conversation surrounding these issues?
Representation and diversity are very important to us at SG. Inclusivity is ingrained in our lingerie collections; with an expanding size range and models of all shapes/sizes, and backgrounds. We aim to celebrate diversity and empower individuals to embrace their unique beauty confidently, hoping to contribute positively to the conversation on representation. Creatively, we aim to continue pushing the boundaries of design innovation, exploring new textures, patterns, and silhouettes that redefine the concept of luxury lingerie. We aspire to be a beacon of creativity in the industry, continuously surprising and delighting our customers with fresh and inspiring collections! On the commercial front, we are committed to expanding our brand's reach while maintaining our commitment to quality and inclusivity. We aspire to grow our presence both online and offline, reaching new markets and demographics. Additionally, we aim to foster strong relationships with our customers, listening to their feedback and evolving our brand to meet their evolving needs. and desires.