Evlove Intimates — Hidden Customization May 24

Evlove’s about page opens with the above quote and establishes the company’s belief in individual style. Launched in 2006 by corporate manager and lingerie lover Jenny Dombroski, Evlove Intimates lets women customize the cut, fabric, color, and trim of their intimate apparel.
For the full range of underwear options from the comfort of my home alone, I am checking out Evlove’s Online Design Studio. As a textile major, fashion minor, and mass-customization writer, Evlove and I could be made for each other.


Evlove is all about comfort so the selection doesn’t include underwire. Unfortunate for me; I’m in the minority of women who combat gravity by actually sleeping in underwire. I decide on the wrap bralet. Fabric choices include modal (a super soft material made from beech wood that wicks better than any fabric), stretch lace, and nylon mesh. The mesh has the largest selection of patterns: some polka dots and a colorful, Pucci-esque print. Pink Pucci, extra-small for me. On to trim.

There are 11 colors of stretch satin trim for the bodice and 5 different kinds of trim for the straps. I go with yellow. I’m in another minority when it comes to underwear; mine has to match. This is much more difficult to find—matching bras and panties—than you would think or than it should be. Thankfully, Evlove doesn’t have completely different fabrics and prints for the bottoms.
So here’s my matching set. $112 pre-tax.

While I can’t attest to quality or fit, here’s my conclusion on the rest.
Pros:
• The price is pretty good for custom-made. You could spend over $100 on Victoria’s Secret.
• Modal as a fabric choice is a nice touch and different from the typical cotton offerings.
• The process is fast and simple.
Cons:
• I would like more style options, especially a one piece.
• There’s really only one print. (ahem. Perhaps you are in need of a freelance textile designer Jenny? : ) )
There are a two other ways to create your own lingerie. Get advice and opinions from your friends by hosting a home event, good for bachelorette parties, bridal showers, or just for fun. Or if you prefer the more traditional method of shopping, Chicago based Evlove just announced this month a retail partnership with two Chi-area boutiques with plans to expand into other major US cities. There is an in-store program that lets you decide the design of panties, camies, and lounge pants. Your custom order is ready in three weeks either for pick-up at the store or direct delivery to your home.









