Musing on Sensuality is a series where we sit down with people who inspire sensuality, and talk about how they cultivate it in their life and work. We hope this series to be a source of inspiration for readers to help cultivate their own daily sensuality.
Underlena Founder, Maxine, had a conversation with Founder Maria Sinkovskiy of Dusseldorf-based Du Ciel, a modern lingerie brand that we feel truly engages the senses.
Hi Maria, it's so beautiful to have you join us. Could you introduce yourself - who are you, and how do you spend your time?
Maxine, happy to have this little internet talk with you :)
I am Maria, born in Kasachstan, based in Düsseldorf, Germany. I founded DU CIEL in 2019, time flies - it began as a mere hobby but has since evolved into a thriving small business. It's been quite the unexpected adventure, considering I didn't have any formal training in this field. There were moments of significant milestones, paired with those late-night contemplative hours when I wondered if I was on the right path. Nevertheless, step by step, I'm steadily progressing toward my envisioned destination.
How I spend my time depends. There are weeks of creativity, weeks of rendezvous, weeks of rest, weeks of business. It all depends on the time of the year and my connection to myself. It's taken time to decipher what to prioritize and when. Currently, I'm in a phase where I'm actively teaching myself the art of slowing down and recalibrating.
Maria in her Düsseldorf apartment
What does sensuality mean to you? What does it feel like?
There was a time when I battled a prolonged illness, and in my mid-twenties, I felt like I was missing out on so much that life had to offer. Rest wasn't something that resonated with me back then. Fast forward to the present, and I find myself in a state of profound ease with my own being. I've grown to cherish and prioritize my body, disconnecting from anything that no longer serves me. This newfound connection feels incredibly potent.
Has your approach to sensuality changed over time due to this period? How so?
My approach to sensuality has indeed evolved over time. There were moments in my life when I associated sensuality primarily with my partner or lovers, believing it brought a sense of completeness. However, I needed time to establish a deeper connection with myself, a journey that some individuals are fortunate to embark on from a young age. I've always admired those who seemed to effortlessly embody sensuality, and gradually, I find myself drawing closer to that state of being every day.
What about practices - do you have any that help you cultivate sensuality on a daily basis?
As for daily practices that nurture sensuality, they may sound rather basic, yet they hold profound significance. Reducing screen time, reading, working out, creating meals, cleaning, journaling, podcasts, creating playlists, connecting with nature.
I wish I could offer more unconventional advice, but these fundamental practices have a transformative power that shouldn't be underestimated. Sensuality, after all, is about being acutely aware of every facet of our existence.
Your pieces are made from such exquisite silks + soft meshes - how does your relationship with sensuality inform how you design your pieces + the fabrics you use?
I use these fabrics in my designs to create a tactile and intimate connection between the wearer and their sensuality, enhancing self-expression and confidence. My pieces aim to empower individuals to celebrate their unique beauty, fostering a profound connection to their sensuality.
What inspired you to begin Du Ciel?
There wasn't a specific moment that inspired me to start Du Ciel. It was simply the closest thing to my heart, and it felt like a clear and natural path for me.
How do you want people to feel when they wear Du Ciel?
I want people to feel a deep connection to their sensuality when they wear Du Ciel. It's about evoking confidence, empowerment, and self-expression. I hope they feel excited and special when they put on our pieces, experiencing Du Ciel.
What is your most worn item from your collection?
As a bottom, I find myself reaching for Nuage or Doux every day, and the Desir Bra is an absolute must in my daily wardrobe. These pieces perfectly embody the comfort and sensuality that are at the core of Du Ciel.
Thank you Maria, it was a pleasure to hear your musings x
Shop the Desir Bra and Nuage String.