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A Conversation with The Lingerie AddictArticle by: Veronica Baesso

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Today I am very excited to share with Ronnie Spirit readers the interview with Cora Harrington aka “Treacle” Founder of The Lingerie Addict, the world’s leading lingerie blog.

What is your background and how did you get started with The Lingerie Addict?

Most people are surprised to hear this, but my background actually nothing to do with lingerie or fashion. Until about a year ago, I was a crisis counsellor and I specialized in working with survivors of trauma (sexual assault, child abuse, domestic violence, etc.).

I first became interested in lingerie because I was dating this guy, and I thought I needed to wear something sexy to impress him. However, I didn’t know anything about shopping for lingerie, and I didn’t have very much money to spend on it. So I turned to the Internet for advice, but I couldn’t find any resources for newbies like me.

While the lingerie set didn’t go over very well with my then-boyfriend, I found that I was genuinely interested in the stuff, and began writing reviews of things I was buying in the hopes it might help other women in my position. I’m pretty sure I was just talking to myself those first few months, but after awhile, my readership grew organically (and slowly!) until The Lingerie Addict became what you see today. From the very beginning, it’s been all about helping the average, everyday women with her intimates.

What is the philosophy behind the Lingerie Addict?

My philosophy for The Lingerie Addict is very simple: lingerie is for every woman – no matter her size, age, budget, skin color, sexual orientation, relationship status, ability, or anything else.

What makes you a lingerie “addict”?

You mean aside from the fact it’s the name of my blog? 😀

I think the biggest reason I’m a lingerie addict (or The Lingerie Addict, rather) is because I truly love lingerie and I see it as another aspect of fashion and another means of self-expression. Lingerie is so often reduced to just bedroom wear when it really has the potential to be so much more. I also never get tired of learning about it or talking about it or sharing what I know with my readers. I’ve been blogging about lingerie for nearly 5 years now, and I don’t think that could happen if I wasn’t at least a little bit addicted.

Are there common mistakes women make when buying lingerie?

I honestly think the biggest mistake women make when it comes to lingerie has nothing to do with buying it, and everything to do with their mindset about wearing it. So many women think lingerie isn’t for them. It’s always for women that are bigger, smaller, older, younger, more single, more married, etc. etc. than they are. And that’s just not true. Lingerie is for every woman. And there is someone out there making something that’s perfect for you.

Could you list 3 lingerie garments that every woman needs in her dresser?

Of course! Every woman needs a perfectly fitting bra, a great piece of loungewear or nightwear, and a pair of fishnet tights.

Is there any lingerie trend you are addicted to?

I’m not sure if you could call this a trend, but I love how so many people are interested in buying from independent brands now. A lot of indie designers disappeared during the recession, so it’s wonderful to see them making a comeback and getting support from lingerie consumers.

Is there anything lacking nowadays in the lingerie market?

Stockings with fancy heels. I’m always a little jealous when I see a vintage hosiery ad with the most fantastic designs at the ankle and heel and realize they’ll probably never be made again.

Lingerie in Movies, what is the most sensual scene and outfit?

My favourite lingerie scenes tend to not be very sensual because lingerie is so much more than sensuality to me. I love the history and the costume and the fashion of it, so I have to say that my favourite lingerie scene is the lingerie fashion show in “Miss Pettigrew Lives for a Day”. Not only are the pieces shown outstanding, it also gives really interesting insight into the way lingerie was viewed culturally at the point in history.

Lingerie shopping: do you prefer to buy online or in brick and mortar boutiques? Why?

I prefer to buy my lingerie online. It’s how I started buying lingerie, and I’ve found it works best for the way I like to shop. I wrote a lengthy piece going into all the reasons why on the blog earlier this year, but the 3 main takeaways are 1) more consistent customer service, 2) better merchandise selection (for both brands and sizes), and 3) better return policies.

What is your advice to young entrepreneurs that want to start a lingerie business?

I think that depends on the kind of business they want to start. Launching a brand isn’t the same as running a boutique which isn’t the same as starting a lingerie PR firm. And considering that I entered the lingerie industry through very non-traditional means, I don’t think I’m the best person to give advice how to break into it traditionally.

That said, I think the same advice that’s true in a lot of other professions is true for lingerie as well. Find a mentor, network, intern, try to get your foot in door even if it’s not your ideal job placement, and work your way up from there.

Where do you see The Lingerie Addict going in 5 years?

I see The Lingerie Addict being even more of a resource for women who want to learn about the most important part of their wardrobe…their lingerie! It’s a wonderful thing to do what you love every single day, and I want to keep doing that.

 

 

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