Ariane Delarue and the Art of Sustainable Lingerie

Where are you currently located, and where do you call home?
—I currently live in Vilassar de Mar, near Barcelona, where I’ve been for five years. However, I’m French, and France will always feel like home to me, even though I haven’t lived there in many years. Before Spain, I spent eight years in London. Ultimately, home is where my family is—my husband and my children. Wherever they are, I feel at home.

How would you describe your brand in three words?
—Comfortable. Sensual. Sustainable.

What inspired you to start your journey into the world of design and artisanal creations?
—I’ve always been inspired by art and creation. Since childhood, I’ve loved drawing and crafting, influenced by my grandmother, who was an amateur seamstress. The beauty of turning artistic ideas into tangible objects has always fascinated me—it’s the perfect harmony between imagination and practicality.

Can you walk us through your creative process, from initial idea to final product?
—My creative process begins with a feeling or concept. For example, my latest collection, The Embrace, captures the delicate bond between fabric and skin, blending tenderness and strength. I start by experimenting with fabrics directly on the mannequin, letting the material and body shape guide me. Only after this initial hands-on phase do I begin sketching and refining. It’s a process that feels as intuitive as French cooking—layering ideas and adjusting until it’s just right.

What role does sustainability play in your brand, and how do you incorporate it into your work?
—Sustainability is at the core of my brand. I use local or certified fabrics, such as Oeko-Tex 100 certified lace and silk from Italy, alongside vintage French laces from the 19th century. Production is local, in Barcelona, and done in small quantities or on-demand to minimize waste. I also embrace pre-orders to avoid overproduction.

Is there a particular piece or collection that holds special meaning for you?
—The Jeanne Top holds a special place for me. It’s crafted from delicate Chantilly or Leavers lace and organza making it an exquisite and exclusive piece of true Haute Couture. The process of creating this top is incredibly intricate and requires hours of dedication, especially when crafting the lace and satin yoke. It’s a labor of love that embodies elegance, artistry, and the beauty of artisanal craftsmanship.

Any advice for founders trying to build a sustainable business?
—Resilience is extremely important. Keep your focus, visualize where you want to be, and stay true to yourself and your values. Start small and stay grounded in your mission. Focus on quality, not quantity, and always integrate sustainability into every aspect of your business. Transparency builds trust with your audience, so don’t shy away from being open about your journey.

Anything exciting on the horizon for 2025 that you’d like to share with us?
—I’m working on expanding internationally, exploring partnerships with key marketplaces and retailers in Europe, the U.S., and the Middle East. I’m also listening closely to customer feedback—many of them have asked for pieces with foam padding underneath the lace to make an additional nipple protection. I’m excited to work on this and introduce new shapes, such as bodysuits. Additionally, I plan to expand the brand’s presence in physical shops, creating more opportunities for customers to experience the collections in person.

What’s the next destination you’re hoping to explore, and does travel influence your work?
—Japan is a country that has already left a deep impression on me. I practiced judo for over 10 years, earning a black belt, and had the chance to visit Japan when I was younger to train and explore its culture. I was captivated by the country’s beauty and craftsmanship, which continue to inspire me. I would love to return, this time with my husband, to share this experience with him and deepen my connection to the place.