Sartorial Star: Exclusive interview with Ines de La Fressange

As the epitome of Parisian chic, Ines de La Fressange never fails to exude sheer sartorial finesse in any outfit she effortlessly puts together. Whether it’s designing for her label or being the muse for countless international designers, the former French model definitely possesses a charming air of sophistication matched with a brilliant elegance – to the envy of many of course.

Her taste and sartorial sense has led to legions of fans attempting to emulate her and with the launch of her first collaboration with Japanese retailer, Uniqlo, that attempt only became easier. Now swiftly launching her fourth collection with Uniqlo, the support and thrill to own an Ines de La Fressange-approved design in their wardrobe is only heightened.

Speaking to Marie France Asia, we’ve got the ineffably stunning icon giving us just a little bit more insight into her partnership with Uniqlo, the definition of Parisian chic and of course what else we can expect from her creative mind down the line.

Marie France Asia: This is your fourth consecutive collaboration with Uniqlo, in your opinion what is the secret to this success?

Ines de La Fressange: First I am very happy about this success! I always thought it’s possible to do nice clothes with good quality that are not too expensive and I guess it is Mr Yanaï’s motto also since forever. The secret is that with Naoki Takizawa we make things that we really like ourselves.

MFA: What is the most interesting thing you’ve learnt throughout the process?

Ines de La Fressange: Every thing is possible! Trust the customers. Trust in their taste and the culture of fashion they have.

MFA: How is this upcoming collection different from the rest and what were you inspired by?

Ines de La Fressange: It’s not different! I mean it’s the same style: parisian, cool but sophisticated. Only this time there are dressy clothes for the evening which is quite new at Uniqlo.

MFA: From the FW15 collection, what are your recommended items that every lady must possess in her wardrobe?

Ines de La Fressange: I think the tweed jackets are great. One can wear them in the city but during weekends too. They fit with everything.

MFA: What are some fashion trends that you think should go away immediately?

Ines de La Fressange: Do you know what, with fashion the funny thing is that sometimes you hate things and after a while you like them. However, whenever I think about fashion, I think about style, feeling good, elegance and personality.

MFA: Often you’re seen as a muse to so many brands but who are your muses and style icons?

Ines de La Fressange: We all have some. Someone you admire or somebody you saw in the street. There is fairness: the wealthiest people are not the best, even the most notorious or the ones who get samples for free. However I have always loved Jane Birkin’s style or Catherine Hepburn’s.

MFA: What would be your definition of the Parisian chic style and how can one emulate it?

Ines de La Fressange: A mix between casual & sophisticated, vintage & new, rock & nostalgia. I wrote a guide about it: it was fun to see how precise finally the parisian style was.

MFA: Do you have any style advice for dressing in Singapore where it’s hot and humid all year round?

Ines de La Fressange: Indeed! But I know the Singapore women – they manage very well and they know a lot about fashion! Anyhow we make great raincoats at Uniqlo that sometimes I wish it would rain just to have the occasion to wear them!

MFA: What is the one item in your wardrobe that you cannot live without and why?

Ines de La Fressange: Truth? None! Clothes are made to bring you joy and self confidence but we should never forget it’s not the priority. But ok, white jeans have saved me on multiple occasions, along with a navy jacket, a velvet jacket or a sweater. Winter or summer they are always great pieces.

MFA: Besides working with Uniqlo, what other projects are you currently working on?

Ines de La Fressange: My newsletter (http://lalettredines.com), taking care of my brand (Ines de la Fressange), buying and designing things for my shop, writing in a french magazine (Votre Beauté), working with L’Oréal, opening shops and taking care of the communication of Roger Vivier, launching carpets with Toulemonde Bochart, and doing a new guide of Parisian dresses (launching on 20th October). And this is only my professional life!

Let’s talk about holidays no?!

The Uniqlo x Ines de La Fressange collection is currently available in all Uniqlo stores. 

Don’t miss Uniqlo X Inès de la Fressange Autumn Winter 2016 on Be Asia.

Tarandip Kaur