MADONNA BAIN
FOUNDER & DESIGNER OF ECO INTIMATES
Designed in the heart of Byron Bay by Madonna Bain, Eco Intimates is a bespoke intimates label dedicated to creating luxurious lingerie and sleepwear. Using natural and organic textiles and slow manufacturing processes, Eco Intimates is a label for conscious consumers that supports our planet.
Beginning in 2008, Madonna has always been passionate about designing and creating soft feminine lingerie that not only makes women feel beautiful, but will stand the test of time. Eco Intimates began in Madonna's home studio while her two daughters were small, and each year the label has grown little by little through much love and dedication.
Today, Eco Intimates is still very much a bespoke label. Each collection includes pieces custom made in Australia, as well as sustainably sized batches produced by a small team of home-makers in Bali, Indonesia. Every design and pattern is lovingly created in the studio of Madonna's Byron Bay home. With each new collection, Madonna remains true to her ethos of creating lingerie 'to remind women how truly beautiful they naturally are'.
Photographer Alisha Tinsley | Model Anita Ghise
Tell us how Eco Intimates began?
It was my major work for my fashion diploma in 2008. I had an idea to create a lingerie label that only used natural fabrics. Organic cotton seemed liked the most luxurious choice as there was limited fabric available. I won student of the year for the work and took out 5 awards for the concept!
What has been the most gratifying moment for you so far?
Leaving my day job in January 2019 to work for Eco Intimates full time!
What has been the biggest challenge in shaping eco intimates?
Starting a business with very little capital! It has been baby steps every step of the way - one step forward two steps back sometimes!
WHAT ARE YOU MOST PROUD OF IN SHAPING ECO INTIMATES?
Every order that is placed fills me with pride! Plus, all the beautiful emails I receive from customers who are overjoyed with their purchases!
Photographer Wade Edwrads | Model Began Bottica
Photographer Wade Edwards | Model | Elise Cevic
ECO INTIMATES REPRESENTS FASHION WITH CONSCIENCE. EVERY PIECE, IN EVERY COLLECTION, IS SUSTAINABLY HANDMADE IN ETHICAL CONDITIONS BY SKILLED GARMENT MAKERS, USING THE HIGHEST QUALITY, NATURAL OR ECO TEXTILES INCLUDING GOTS CERTIFIED ORGANIC COTTON.
Photographer Wade Edwrads | Model Began Bottica
Who is the person that inspires you most?
My old boss, Vicki Wise. She is not only a gorgeous person, a beautiful loving mother and so much fun and hilarious - but she is a powerhouse of a business woman. She inspired me in so many ways for the four years I worked with her and I cherish her as a friend and mentor today.
What is the best advice you have ever received?
KEEP IT SIMPLE - something I rarely listen to, as I love making things complicated!
Describe yourself in one sentence?
Creative, over-thinker and 'too much information' kinda lady!
What excites you most AS A DESIGNER?
Creating practical styles that are beautiful for every woman.
What can we expect to see next from Eco Intimates?
Dusty pink, raspberry, cream and cinnamons, A new floral print. New knicker shapes including a G string and 'not your average' everyday briefs in lots of pretty colours!