Sharp, architectural and endlessly alluring, Bordelle has always felt like a label you notice before you can quite place it. Founded in London over two decades ago by Alexandra Popa, the brand began with a quietly radical idea: lingerie that isn’t shy, but sculptural, expressive and unapologetically bold. Its graphic, body-contouring pieces soon became a signature in fashion circles and on red carpets—worn by the likes of Madonna, Beyoncé and Lady Gaga—cementing its cult status while never straying from its female-first ethos.
But behind the striking silhouettes is something more considered. Designing from London, Popa has steadily built a loyal, largely female team around her, with intricate details—from bespoke embroidery inspired by the city to seasonal themes such as SS26’s sea-world motifs—forming part of the brand’s DNA. She also owns and operates her manufacturing base in Romania, where she has invested in preserving specialist corsetry know-how and creating opportunities for women, from the factory director to the skilled makers on the floor.
