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Redefining Intimates: The OHEN Story

After leaving the pace of corporate life and navigating life with three young children, Lu Blade-Bittle saw a gap in the market for lingerie that felt modern, refined, and genuinely wearable. Together with seasoned lingerie designer Anja Bucher, they set out to create something different, an intimate collection shaped by real-life experience and a clear design point of view.

We spent time with the pair in their Ponsonby studio ahead of Anja’s second baby arriving, and later caught up with Lu to talk about the evolution of OHEN, caring for delicates, and the quiet rituals that shape her every day.

Can you share the story behind OHEN? How did the brand come to life?

After having my third child and stepping away from corporate life, I was searching for lingerie that was both functional and refined—pieces that felt well considered. When I couldn’t find anything that worked, I reached out to Anja, whose 15 years of lingerie design experience brought both technical expertise and a deep understanding of form and fit. Together, we spent nearly two years sampling and developing our initial collection—refining every detail to ensure it not only looked beautiful but genuinely supported the way women live and move. We wanted to create something with substance—lingerie that reflects the needs and sensibilities of the women we know.

What inspired the name “OHEN,” and what does it represent for the brand?

OHEN is an amalgamation of the names of people we love - a simple nod to what matters most to us. We wanted a name that felt personal but not sentimental, and importantly, not overtly feminine. We felt like OHEN captured the essence of the brand: considered, purposeful, and subtly rebellious.

As co-founders, you each bring unique strengths to OHEN. How do your individual skills and perspectives shape the way you work together?

We’re very intentional about playing to our strengths and being transparent when we’re out of depth. Anja leads the creative vision, while I focus on the business and strategy side. Though our daily roles differ, our work is deeply interconnected, so clear and constant communication is essential to stay aligned.

What did you love about using Everyday Launder? And how does its performance and ethos align with OHEN’s values?

We love that Everyday Launder is plant-derived and gentle on delicates. For us, making thoughtful choices that protect the planet—without sacrificing performance—is essential. Partnering with Ashley & Co, which shares this commitment, feels like a natural fit.

Delicates require special care. What are your top tips for washing lingerie? How often do you recommend washing different pieces?

Handwashing is the gentlest way to care for bras, protecting the delicate lace and underwire. We recommend washing after 3-4 wears, and hanging bras by the center front to avoid stretching the straps. Briefs can be machine washed, but using a wash bag helps maintain their colour, shape, and softness. One of my favourite tips is to take your bra into the shower for a quick wash—it’s such a good way to save time.

Community and authenticity are core to OHEN’s identity. Can you explain how you bring those values to life in your brand and customer experience?

OHEN ON (our online community) is so important to us. It’s all about finding women who epitomise the OHEN ethos; being part of a collective of women who are subtly non-conformist but with deeply rooted values based on love, kindness and acceptance. It’s less about how many followers they have and more about how much people connect with them as real people. It helps us reach people who may not have seen us before, or for those that have, it might build a little bit more trust. And that’s the key - building trust with our community.

From fabric selection to final silhouette, your designs feel very intentional. Where do you draw inspiration when developing new styles or entire collections?

Anja is very much inspired by vintage lingerie designs - their subtle details influence everything from the lace to the way the cup sits. She also has her mum's Vogue magazines from the 80’s & 90’s that she references for colour and silhouettes. Every detail is considered and she is so committed to pushing boundaries without compromising on comfort.

Looking ahead, what’s next for OHEN? Are there any upcoming collections, collaborations, or creative directions you’re particularly excited about?

We’re launching a new colour this Spring, alongside a new brief currently in the sampling phase. Anja is also in the early stages of designing a new bra as well as considering the technical challenges of a maternity bra and a strapless bra.

Quick fire Q’s for Lu:


Name a scent that invokes a special memory for you.

I have a tradition of buying a new perfume whenever I visit a new city so the scent reminds me of that place - I have one called Neroli Tomboy I bought the first time I went to Paris and it instantly takes me back there.

A daily ritual you can’t live without?

Honestly, my morning coffee. I try to get up before everyone else so I can enjoy it in peace.

Favourite dish and where would you like to eat it?

I would have to say Har Gow at Yum Cha at Pearl Garden in Newmarket. We go nearly every Saturday so it’s become a bit of a family tradition.

What’s your favourite space in your home?

My bed. I think sleep is so important so I’m very particular about this space and everything that goes into it.

Your most-loved Ashley & Co scent?

I always go back to Tui & Kahili - it reminds me of everything clean and fresh.