VPL began with
a simple concept of drawing the innerwear out. By bringing
underwear out to become a visible, stylish part of our
everyday uniform, VPL style begs the question: what
mystery really lies beneath?
VPL (Visible Panty Line) launched its first line of
undergarment-inspired styles in Fall of 2003, when well-known
stylist Victoria Bartlett had a vision to design a capsule
collection to fill the niche between lingerie and sportswear.
As a stylist, Victoria acknowledged the growing demand
for utilitarian yet stylish undergarments that can be
mixed, matched, and layered, hence, the building block
factor she encourages in her designs. Furthermore, Victoria
began to question the assumption of sexiness in undergarments.
With the bold assertion that “I don’t do T and A,” she
challenged the fashion world with an innovative conception
of sexy.
While each season embodies the utilitarian-chic style
in new ways, VPL has continued to incorporate elements
of functional uniforms with daring shots of color, unexpected
accessories, and creative styling pieces. The VPL aesthetic
remains rooted in the foundational principles of comfort,
functionality, and style. By injecting the everyday
uniform with the unexpected panty line, the peeping-out
bra strap, or the bold shock of color, each season unveils
a new dimension of the standard-issue. The design details
and trims such as sliders, elastics, and zigzag stitching,
extracted from architectural quality of vintage underwear,
have become a recognizable characteristic of the brand.
From the militaristic maverick to the institutional
ingénue, VPL style attracts the woman who eschews traditional
sexy, yet exudes a sensuality all her own.
Since inception, VPL has gradually evolved to include
ready-to-wear, accessories, bags, and shoes, partnering
with shoe designer Jean-Michel Cazabat and jewelry designers
Alyssa Norton, Brian Crumley, and Josh Hickey. Each
season brings new pieces ranging from sea-glass chandeliers
to Roman-coin bangles to banded leather armadillo boots,
and beyond. As designer Victoria Bartlett and business
partner Kikka Hanazawa bring VPL to the frontlines of
fashion, the world has taken note. In 2006, VPL received
the Ecco Domani award, was a finalist for the Fashion
Group International Rising Star Award in 2007, and most
recently, was a top ten finalist for the 2007 CFDA Vogue
Fashion Fund. Furthermore, celebrities such as Gwen
Stefani, Jennifer Aniston, Tilda Swinton, Juliette Lewis,
and Victoria Beckham have been seen in VPL designs.
From the design studio in New York City, Victoria Bartlett
continues to be inspired by the unceasing city pulse,
yet remains dedicated to the concept of visibility rather
than invisibility (underwear, outerwear, anywhere).
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