Rising stars' glam bras support the MoonWalk

Published on Tuesday 16 June 2009 09:49

THEY are certainly not the most discreet of under-garments.

But these elaborate creations have been unveiled in support of this year's MoonWalk when thousands of brave women – and quite a few men – will take to Edinburgh's streets in colourful bras.

The two luxury jewelled, beaded and ribboned bras have created by top fashion designers for the breast cancer charity event and will be auctioned off afterwards.

Niki Taylor, from Livingston, who has been dubbed an "up-and-coming star of style", created one of the garments on her label Olanic. It is on display at Harvey Nichols in the city centre, which donated a basic bra for Niki to spruce up in her own style.

Although she cannot make Saturday night's event, Niki sewed her design over a full day to raise money for the cause.

She said: "It's a combination of floral and burlesque. The bra donated was floral and I have built it up with dark undertones.

"Although I've never known anybody who died of breast cancer all my grandparents died of cancer so I was very keen to help."

She said her creation was inspired by her winter collection, which featured at last year's London Fashion Week. Her clothing has grown in popularity, with stars including Ting Tings singer Katie White, rapper Lady Sovereign and Lisa Snowdon snapping up her designs.

Niki added: "The idea behind the bra was to create something fun as well as sexy."

A second bra, by designers Chloe Patience and Mhairi McNicol under their label BeBaroque, is in the window display of Frederick Street boutique Boudiche.

The pair built on a nude-coloured bra donated by the boutique with a selection of gold and silver beads, pearls and gems, reminiscent of the designer tights the team create at their Albion Road studio.

Like Niki's, their fashion future looks bright as they have also featured in magazines including Vogue and Cosmopolitan.

Neither of the pieces will be worn during the marathon, but they are due to be sold at a special charity auction after the event.

Niki said: "We're hoping the bras will raise a lot of money."

Those interested in bidding for the bras can get in touch with Harvey Nichols or Boudiche.