27 July, 2016

Selfridges meets: Elle MacPherson

We quiz iconic supermodel Elle 'The Body' Macpherson about her all-new Elle Macpherson Body brand, top underwear shopping tips and her must-have cheat day treats.

SUM UP THE ELLE MACPHERSON BODY BRAND IN A SENTENCE

Elle Macpherson Body is defined by its dynamic simplicity, and an Australian uncontrived cool - and a new type of strong sexy. 
 

YOU’VE BEEN A KEY FIGURE IN THE LINGERIE INDUSTRY FOR OVER TWENTY YEARS NOW – HOW DID YOU GET STARTED, AND WHAT’S BEEN THE BIGGEST CHANGE SINCE YOU BEGAN?

After licensing a brand for 25 years – during which time I learnt a huge amount - I felt it was time to step up and create a lingerie line that truly encapsulates my vision. With Elle Macpherson Body, I have had the freedom to create such a brand. We started with the aim to design the perfect t-shirt bra – and I think we have achieved it! The industry has changed extensively in the last 30 years. The biggest influence today is social media and the ability for people and brands to talk directly with their customers / tribe.

We started with the aim to design the perfect t-shirt bra – and I think we have achieved it!

TELL US ABOUT THE ELLE MACPHERSON BODY CAMPAIGN

I loved working with my dear friend and mentor Gilles Bensimon when we were shooting this campaign. There’s a coolness in the imagery that epitomizes the brand, reflecting the Australian lifestyle and its signature fresh, uncontrived spirit. We chose our model Kirsten Liljegren for her natural athletic body - a new type of sexy - and found when she put on the lingerie, she made it her own.

 

WHAT’S THE BEST LINGERIE BUYING ADVICE YOU CAN GIVE TO A WOMAN?

I believe true luxury is comfort and style. Getting fitted properly by a professional is vital! If underwear fits correctly it will make such a difference to your silhouette.
 

WHAT’S YOUR FAVOURITE PIECE FROM YOUR COLLECTION?

The collection centres round ‘the body’ and so I would say the bodysuit is the focal piece that should form part of every woman’s wardrobe. It can be used as underwear to give women a more flattering shape, or worn as outerwear - dressed down with cut-off jeans or sexy under a suit. 

 

WHAT’S YOUR FAVOURITE WAY TO START THE DAY?

With a smile! I aim to dedicate 20-30 minutes in the morning to meditate, preparing myself for the day ahead. My wellness routine starts with warm water and lemon first thing in the morning - then breakfast, then my Superelixr by WelleCo alkalizing greens in 500ml of water. Love, laughter and water (3 litres per day) are my key daily ingredients.

I believe in beauty from the inside out - start with good nutrition, and the rest will follow.

IF YOU COULD BORROW AND NOT GIVE BACK ANY PIECE OF ICONIC CLOTHING, WHAT WOULD IT BE?

Anything from Azzedine Alaia - or a couture Chanel jacket to wear with jeans. 

 

WHAT’S THREE THINGS YOU CAN’T LEAVE THE HOUSE WITHOUT?

 
I don't really wear much makeup - so sunglasses are super practical. My iPhone 6+ so I am in touch with my nearest and dearest, and can do business out of the office. Lastly, a note paper and pen to record thoughts and ideas. 

 

WHAT’S YOUR FAVOURITE CHEAT-DAY TREAT?

My go-to treat is dark chocolate, which I have every day! My favourite food is a good Thai curry, and I also love the meringue pie at Cipriani in London. 

 

WHAT’S YOUR MOTTO TO LIVE BY?

“It's an inside job- nothing on the outside is going to fix the way you feel.” I believe in beauty from the inside out - start with good nutrition, and the rest will follow.