Lena Dunham's Custom Ellie Misner Couture Is Realizing Her "Botticelli Meets Nigella Lawson" Fashion Dream
On television, in interviews, and most notably in her fashion sense, Lena Dunham has consistently defied expectations. She is wearing a look that seems like pure, decadent poetry for her much awaited television comeback in the romantic comedy Too Much. It is sensual, sculpture-like, and completely unique, reminiscent of Botticelli's Venus with a hint of British domestic goddess Nigella Lawson.
2025-06-25 10:59:07 - Tress Galloway
The Designer Who Attracted Dunham's Attention
Dunham discovered the work of London-based designer Ellie Misner, whose dreamlike forms that appear to move with the body rather than against it are combined with second-skin corsetry in her demi-couture designs.
"I was totally engrossed," Dunham said to Vogue. "I knew Ellie was my ideal collaborator the moment I saw her work and her willingness to dress a variety of bodies."
She sent the ideas to Michael Handler, her stylist, who was just as delighted. Dunham's sophisticated sense of style was a wonderful fit for Misner's hallmark design, which featured vibrant crimson corsets, flowing skirts that kiss every curve, and unabashedly feminine structure.
A Letter of Love in Form and Fabric
Handler sent what Dunham referred to as a “heartfelt note,” full of description and appreciation, rather than merely placing an order. They enumerated their favorite items, extolled the beauty of the craftsmanship, and made it apparent that this was about more than simply a garment; it was about a common goal.
The outcome? Misner drew the unique outfit, adjusting each fold and line to capture Dunham's figure as well as her creative personality.
The last ensemble, a beautiful, sculpture-like ensemble that embraced the modern curves of womanhood while paying homage to Renaissance beauty, was nothing short of cinematic. It was self-expression done in silk and boning, not just red carpet style.
It is Not Just a Beautiful Dress
The symbolism is what makes this time unique, not just the fashion. Dunham, a longtime supporter of fashion emancipation and body inclusivity, purposefully selected a designer who celebrates all bodies. Dunham and Misner are creating an environment where art, comfort, and confidence coexist in a world where custom couture is all too frequently used just for the sample size.
This partnership is a silent revolution for Misner, whose designs are typically discussed in fashion-forward circles and Instagram comment sections. It is evidence that genuine style is about connection rather than conformity.
The Start of a Style Era
Dunham's style for Too Much is a statement rather than a one-off. Of strength, of soft power, of sensuality. It blends the grounded glamor of Nigella Lawson, who has always managed to look devastatingly wonderful while being unapologetic about who she is, and the luscious sensuality of Botticelli's brush.
It is obvious that Dunham is dressing for her chosen lifestyle rather than merely the red carpet these days. In addition, she is using fabric that speaks, murmurs, and occasionally yells in her mother tongue.