One of the Designers Behind the Victoria's Secret Show Reveals The Push-Up Trick The Girls Rely On
Nov. 15 2013, Published 6:33 p.m. ET
DEGEN founder Lindsay Degen was responsible for the incredible knits shown in the PINK section of the Victoria's Secret Show this season and the story of how she got started in the fashion biz couldn't be cuter. At the age of three, her grandmother gave her a set of knitting needles and taught her how to stitch—UM, adorable. We caught up with the Brooklyn-based designer to see what it was like to fit the models, how long it took to make each custom piece, and just what the deal was with Emojis this year, see what she had to say below.
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OK!: What was your inspiration for the PINK part of the VS show this year?
Lindsay Degen: The theme for the section was already set to be PINK Network, but I extensively researched all of the popular abbreviations like "OMG" as well as emojis.
OK!: Which look was your favorite?
LD: Jessica Hart really made the clear body suit HOT. It was amazing to see the work on supermodels. My personal favorite look was the last look of the section with the big OMG neck piece.
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OK!: Which model were you most excited to work with?
LD: Our fit model was Barbara Fialho and she was so much fun.
OK!: Your line is all about cozy knits, what are your tips for styling them?
LD: I always like to layer my knits. In NYC its freezing outside and then way too hot in the buildings, so its important to be able to wear layers so that you can also take them off. I am always a fan of practicality.
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OK!: How did you feel seeing your work go down the runway?
LD: Being a part of the Victoria's Secret Fashion Show was incredible. It's actually fun with fashion and the models smile and look happy. I like that.
OK!: Anything crazy happen during fittings?
LD: There were always shenanigans happening at fittings; lots of dancing and laughing. I guess the most unexpected thing that happened was "cutlets," which are basically these clear synthetic boob hoisters. They are the ultimate push up and I never expected to see them being pulled out of bras, but I guess they are the literal "Victoria's secret."
OK!: How many hours did it take to create these pieces?
LD: Each piece took about 40-60 hours and some even more time. We worked on the show stuff exclusively for months.
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OK!: What was the design process like?
LD: At first I was a little timid, but as we continued to work with the VS team I got more adventurous and told them what I thought would be cool on the looks. One fitting I showed up with some LED stuff and they loved it. I then designed the Emoji with the changing expressions that was completely dependent on the LEDS. They gave me all of the design freedom in the world.
OK!: Let's talk leg warmers—how can we wear them this season?
LD: I think leg warmers are practical; you can wear them under a longer skirt so they don't scream '80s and they allow you to wear a more summery wardrobe item into the winter.
Will you be watching the show on December 10th? Who's your favorite VS Angel? Leave a comment below or tweet us your thoughts @OKMagazine!