IN CONVERSATION WITH PAIGE DESORBO
interview by JANA LETONJA
Paige DeSorbo is launching her loungewear and pajama line Daphne this October. With the phenomenal success of her hit comedy podcast ‘Giggly Squad’ she’s formed a brand built on authenticity, developing a loyal and powerful community of like-minded minds known as the “Gigglers”. In the last year, she’s become an instant New York Times bestselling author, sold out Radio City 2x over with the ‘Club Giggly’ national touring act, launched a groundbreaking hit weekly Amazon Live fashion shopping series, started a weekly YouTube series, hosted the Vanity Fair Oscar after party livestream, and has become a leading millennial voice surrounding mental health and modern feminism.
photography by LUCIO ANDREOZZI
Let’s talk about Daphne. How did the idea for a loungewear and pajama line come to life? What inspired the brand’s aesthetic and name?
I love being in bed, I’m always looking for pockets during the day where I can be in bed. I also have adult responsibility which is a bummer, but wearing a cute comfortable set instantly makes me feel more productive. Daphne the cat is not a good influence on being productive whatsoever, but her namesake line makes a coffee run and video call a bit easier.
Your first drop sold out in record time. What do you think resonated most with your audience about the initial collection?
The initial collection was a minimalist clean lines airy summer drop. I wanted the pieces to feel easy for the summer, pieces that you could live in. 100% cotton is my favorite to lounge in, especially in the summer, so I knew my audience would feel similar. At the core, Daphne is a direct solution to items that I personally thought were missing in my wardrobe, which I knew would resonate with other women. I want to fill the void and answer to all loungewear needs.
photography by COLIENA RENTMEESTER
What can fans and new customers expect from the October launch of Daphne in terms of styles, sizing, and product expansions?
I’m excited for the fall and fall colors. As the seasons change, so will Daphne’s designs and products. Expect an easy fall dress and the softest pants for those colder nights.
Was there a particular gap in the market that Daphne is designed to fill?
I personally have loved pajama sets since I was a little girl. Whenever I would go away for the weekend as an adult, I liked to pack pajama sets that were chic and comfortable. I found myself lounging in them longer and wishing I could just wear them out of the house, but everything in the market read too much like pajamas. I wanted Daphne to be versatile with pieces that you could mix and match, and feel confident in for any occasion, whether it be at night during your skincare routine or at a lunch with co-workers. I love being home in bed and on those work from home days, Daphne makes it easy for a video call and back to bed.
How are you balancing form and function in Daphne – fashion-forward, yet comfortable enough for everyday wear?
High quality materials and classic design are very important to me. I wanted to offer pieces that make you feel like you could live in, not just wear. Staple pieces and go-to’s for all occasions and functions. I wanted Daphne’s first drop to be easy for those summer activities like needing an easy beach pant or big tee for bed on hot nights. Clean and minimal was my inspiration, with a subtle hint of feminine touches like ties on the side or a pale pink color way. Similarly, our Fall assortment offers incredible comfort and cozy chicness for the colder months, perfect for holiday travel as well.
You’ve built a brand empire across so many platforms. What’s been your North Star through it all?
Giggly Squad has my heart and soul. Being able to create with my best friend and the community that we’ve formed with the Gigglers has been the best part of my career.
photography by LUCIO ANDREOZZI
With fashion, podcasting, live tours, and now product lines under your belt, how do you decide where to focus your energy next?
I am grateful to be busy with so many things that I genuinely love. I consider myself a bit type A, so I wouldn’t take something on that I couldn’t put my whole heart and efforts into. It has to feel authentic and true to who I am. Daphne has been one of the most exciting things thus far.
How do you keep your content and business ventures feeling authentic while scaling to such a massive audience?
Timing is important. And I’m a believer in trusting my gut and instincts. I don’t think I would’ve been able to launch Daphne or any product a few years ago. It certainly wouldn’t be named after my first child. I’m in a place now where I can firmly be “the boss”, and build an authentic brand through my vision.
With so many eyes on your every move, how do you maintain balance and protect your mental health?
To be serious, I would say my family keeps me grounded and balanced. And of course, the Gigglers. They have provided such a safe space and so much support for Hannah and I, and we are forever grateful.
Modern feminism is a big part of your voice. How do you see fashion and self-expression fitting into that narrative?
Fashion has always been a representation of culture. I think TikTok has brought the concept of “if my boyfriend hates my outfit, I know it’s cool”. Clothes and fashion have always been an organic bonding experience amongst women, so I’ve always seen dressing for me and other women at the core of my style. I love ultra-feminine and I love ultra-masculine outfits, and other women get that you can be both.
Are there new ventures on the horizon that you’re excited about, either in fashion or beyond?
I hope so. I love getting to do what I do every day and it’s always changing and exciting. Daphne the label and the cat are getting a lot of love and I am excited to grow with both.
photography by LUCIO ANDREOZZI
