From the SS2010 collection

Who is she?

The Belgian-born, Paris-based designer, Carine Gilson, graduated in Fine Art from the Brussels Academy and studied at the celebrated Antwerp Fashion School  – other talented alumni include  Dries van Noten and Martin Margiela. Fascinated by lace, her ambition was to create her own brand of ‘Lingerie Couture’, which she accomplished in 1994.

The Look

Carine Gilson is one of the very few designers to consider that lingerie is more than a simple accessory or basic item. She selects the finest Lyon silk, most delicate Chantilly lace and used a rich colour palette for her AW09 collection. Variations of lipstick red, majestic purples and jet black are all combined with an elegant array of Chantilly lace.

For SS10 the look is more subtle and subdued. Nude tones are juxtaposed with black detailing, while whispers of pastel and salmon pink complement the ice cream-coloured collection. The lingerie might be dramatic, but it never ventures into being too ornate or fussy.

As well as lingerie, camisoles, chemises, kimonos and slips, there are negligées, nightwear and swimwear. Gilson’s swimwear has a look of  the days of classic Hollywood movies, with the addition of modern detailing. A ruched swimsuit is given a sexy touch with halter-neck straps and bikinis are adorned with ribbon; a clever modern twist on this chic 1950’s style. You can easily imagine Marilyn Monroe wearing a Carine Gilson swimsuit!

The Buzz

Few lingerie brands capture the romance, the glamour, and the sophistication that is found in the Carine Gilson couture collection. Exuding luxury from every stitch it is certainly not for the faint hearted.

A glamorous Gilson swimsuit

All bras, panties, slips, strings, and negligees are produced in natural silk and every garment is hand-stitched by gifted seamstresses. The variations in shade or finishing are details that testify to their unique nature.

And Gilson’s favourite item? A chemise with assymmetrically adorned with a mélange of lace: “This classical model expresses at the same time the lightness and the precious side of fabrics.”

Where to buy it

Carine Gilson has created a contemporary boudoir shopping experience at her boutiques in Paris and London. The idea was to establish an exclusive meeting point, unlike anything shoppers are used too. The atmosphere is warm, intimate and decorated in a palette of powdery hues with soft golden lighting. The striking changing rooms are adorned with birds of paradise, which add to the Garden of Eden atmosphere. This delicate world offers a showcase in which Carine Gilson couture lingerie can reveal its full charm.

Carine Gilson offers additional points of sale across Europe within various boutiques and shops:

Le Bon Marche – Paris;  The Short Way – Belgium;  Kowa – Switzerland; Antonia – Milan, and online at Net-a-Porter.

For more information visit the Carine Gilson website.