Ayten Gasson

Founder, Ayten Gasson

How/Where did it all Begin?

In 2004, I graduated from Central St Martins with a BA in Fashion Print and began a career in lingerie by collaborating with Tabooboo to create an exclusive range of 50’s inspired printed lingerie for Selfridges. I managed to secure funding from the Prince’s Trust and took my first collection (in a vintage hat box) door to door to some of my favourite boutiques. The first collection sold in London and across boutiques on the South Coast.

How would you describe your Style?

Since then I have developed several signature styles of skirted and peek a boo knickers, kimono tops, teddies and slips, all whilst maintaining a firm commitment to using UK workers and UK suppliers. The lace is sourced from mills based in Nottingham, and I continue to explore vintage designs and traditional fabrics with an eye to ethical and sustainable sources.

What Fabrics do you like to use and why?

 As each trim (from vintage lace to satin ribbons) has been sourced to compliment the design, I only use 100% silk in all of the designs. This ensures that each piece is as luxurious and elegant as the next.

Have you had a chance to Travel?

Luckily my work has taken me to Paris and New York (as well as across the UK). But I've also travelled to many European countries and Mexico. My dream holiday would be to travel around Australia (I have a lot of family there) and New Zealand.

Where do you draw your Inspiration from?

Books and Films - especially anything to do with The Beatles and old MGM musicals.

Where is your Home Town and do you still live there?

London girl born and bred. The mix of cultures and people is constantly an inspiration.

What is the best piece of Advice you’ve ever been given?

Don't look where you fell, but where you slipped.

What is your Quirkiest Habit and how long have you had it

Cleaning when stressed...

What is your Happiest Memory?

Designing and making my Oscar dress out of staples and bin bags with my best friend at the time... We were 8.