Sustainability Meets Intimacy: Aditi Sonar’s Vision

Aditi Sonar is the creative director, designer, and founder of her namesake brand.

Based in London, Aditi Sonar is a sustainable lingerie label rooted in personal nostalgia and heritage. Each piece is handmade and currently made to order, using natural cottons, vintage and deadstock lace, and upcycled fabrics and embellishments. This is truly a darling brand in so many ways: it prioritizes inclusivity, sustainability, and the creation of absolutely fabulous pieces. When I first discovered the brand on Instagram, I instantly fell in love, and I believe you will too.

Keep reading to learn more about why Aditi loves lingerie, her creative process, and her advice for aspiring artists and designers.

xx,
Eisley

Why lingerie?

I chose lingerie because, even during college, I was always drawn to vintage lingerie silhouettes and fabrics like lace, tulle, mesh, and satin. Lingerie has always felt different to me compared to any other garment it’s the closest piece to your body, designed to embrace every curve. That level of intimacy is incredibly special and continues to inspire me.

How does being a London-based designer influence you?

London is such a diverse and vibrant city you’re constantly surrounded by different cultures, styles, and perspectives. It’s also a place deeply connected to social and environmental activism, and that has shaped my own values as a designer. That inclusivity inspires me to make sure my brand is accessible to everyone. Lingerie sizing, for example, has always been a challenge around 70–80% of women wear the wrong size. I want to change that by teaching women how to measure themselves and by creating lingerie that truly fits them. For me, that’s a way of being inclusive while also being sustainable. When a bra fits well and makes you feel comfortable and confident, you’re far less likely to keep buying replacements, which helps reduce overconsumption.

What’s your creative process?

My creative process always begins with personal inspiration. As a British Indian, I carry two strong cultural identities that merge into playful, youthful designs. Growing up, the way my mother dressed me and the styles of the early 2000s really influenced my love for sparkles, beads, stripes, polka dots, gingham, and anything eye catching. I also love history and find endless inspiration in it. My favourite eras are Tudor, Edwardian, and Victorian, as well as, of course, the French Rococo! These are also nostalgic to me, as they are what I grew up learning about in school here. From there, I research, collage, and create moodboards and consider fabrics, which then help me in sketching my designs. The next stage is toiling, draping, and pattern making. Once I’ve made a toile, I refine the fit and details before moving on to the final piece.

Dream collaborations?

I’d love to collaborate with Anna Sui, Simone Rocha, or Blumarine. Their playful, romantic designs would pair beautifully with my brand’s aesthetic it would be such a fun, creative exchange.

Where do you see the brand going?

Aditi Sonar is still growing. This year, I plan to expand the lingerie range and possibly venture into womenswear as well. I’d also love to host a pop up in London; meeting customers in person is so important to me. There’s something very special about connecting face to face and seeing women interact with the pieces in real life.

What advice would you give aspiring artists and designers?

Just start. Don’t overthink it, begin creating. Experimentation and exploration will always help you grow and better understand yourself as an artist. Nothing you make will ever be a waste of time if you learn from it.

How does your heritage shape your work?

My heritage is at the heart of my brand. The vibrancy of Indian patterns, the richness of fabrics, and traditional techniques like beading and embroidery are things I want to celebrate and preserve. As an Indian woman living in London, I’ve been privileged to have access to education and independence, opportunities not available to all women back home, even within my own family. I want my brand to give back by creating opportunities for women in India to gain skills and education that empower them to be independent. I’ll be partnering with a charity that supports this mission.

How do you balance university and your brand?

Lists! Lists! Lists! Honestly, my Notes app is chaos, but lists are the only way I manage to stay on top of everything. Breaking tasks down keeps me organised and helps me juggle both sides of my life.

Who would you “Bling Ring”?

Elle Woods from Legally Blonde. She’s intelligent, stylish, and has a wardrobe bursting with character. What more could you want?

Cats or dogs?

I can’t choose, I love both! They’re such different animals, you can’t compare them. I have a cat at home called B, but I’m also dreaming of a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel one day.

Does wearing lingerie make you feel more confident?

For me, lingerie instantly boosts my confidence from within. I also like to design pieces that can be styled to be seen. I love the idea that a beautiful bra or slip isn’t just hidden underneath; it can become part of your outfit and instantly elevate your whole look.

xx