Our Story

LeDoré means "the golden one" in French. It is also the middle name of our founder and creative director, Julia Marion LeDoré Ford (Ngāti Kahungunu, Ngāti Porou, Ngāi Tahu), which makes this label personal from its very first letter.

Julia has spent more than two decades designing fashion, footwear, accessories and jewellery in New Zealand. LeDoré began in 2019 as a made-to-order project called Sweepstake Winners. In 2023, while on maternity leave, it evolved into LeDoré, with a clear point of view: statement-making wardrobe staples for women who know quality and want to leave a lasting impression.

What we make

Every piece is designed by Julia in New Zealand. Our silk shirts and blouses carry prints she draws by hand, custom-printed onto silk. Our suiting is cut from wool blends, tweed, velvet, linen or cotton blends, with strong shoulders and buttons that feel like jewellery. There is a clear emphasis on colour and silhouette, and we're known for high-impact, versatile pieces that will remain your go-to favourites for years to come.

Our jewellery is sculptural and made to be noticed. These are heirloom 'costume' or 'fashion' jewellery pieces, made in small batches from 18k gold-plated recycled brass, or PVD plated for longevity where specified.

How we make it

We work with a small number of boutique production partners and produce in small batches. It sometimes takes a little longer, but it means every piece is made with care. Natural fibres come first: silk, cashmere, wool, cotton, linen and leather. Our range stays intentionally small, so each style earns its place.

Who we design for

Our customer is confident, considered and knows what suits her. She wears LeDoré to the boardroom, to weddings and events and on the days in between. She buys less and buys better, and she wants pieces that still feel right ten years from now.

What inspires us

The women of 60s to 80s French and Italian cinema, whose names you'll find on our pieces: Vivi, Sylvie, Rampling, Margaux. The New Zealand coast, which shaped our Golden Tide jewellery capsule. Small details from home, like the custom koru buttons on our shirts and knitwear, are intentional and meaningful design elements.

Made to last

LeDoré pieces are made to be worn for years and handed on. If we have sold out of your size, or you would like to order something custom designed or altered to your needs, please send us a message, as we may be able to make one for you.

We hope LeDoré becomes part of all your golden moments.

Stay golden.

LeDoré At A Glance

  • Founded: 2019 as a made-to-order label, relaunched as LeDoré in 2023
  • Founder and creative director: Julia LeDoré Ford
  • Studio: Mt Eden, Auckland, New Zealand
  • What we make: women's suiting, silk blouses and shirts, cashmere knitwear, leather and suede outerwear, and statement jewellery
  • Materials: silk, cashmere, wool blends, lamb leather and suede, cotton and linen. Jewellery in 18k gold-plated recycled brass and gold-plated stainless steel
  • Prices: from NZ$65 for charms and NZ$99 for earrings, to NZ$899 for leather jackets
  • Sizes: 0 to 4, equivalent to NZ 6 to 14
  • Where to buy: ledore-studios.com, our stockists, and wholesale through Faire. We ship worldwide from Auckland

Sustainability

LeDoré is designed in Aotearoa/New Zealand and brought to life by skilled artisans, at home and abroad. A commitment to thoughtful design and responsible sourcing remain the cornerstone of our approach, ensuring our garments and the hands that craft them are treated with the utmost respect.

We are forging as sustainable a production process as possible, from the materials we source to the factories we use, and the way we encourage our customers to shop mindfully and care for their pieces.

Thank you for making us a part of your story x

EXPLORE JULIA'S FAVOURITES

 
Marlene Feather-Cuff Blazer in Vermillion, front view
 
Marlene Flared Trouser in Vermillion, front view
 
Anjelica Silk Bow Blouse in Bonbon Pink, front view