A New Look at Lingerie: Alessandra Mackenzie

Sophie Elgort
Alessandra Baker has design in her DNA — her grandfather was a bespoke menswear designer — and on her CV — she also took a turn to menswear with a position at Ralph Lauren. After getting an education at Parsons School of Design, Baker went into the decidedly feminine world of lingerie when she launched Alessandra Mackenzie, but opted to give it a masculine nod with a steamlined, comfortable aesthetic. Life, after all, is all about balance. Get to know Baker, more on her novel approach and why lazy Sundays serve as major inspiration.

Harper's Bazaar: Why was lingerie your first choice for your line?

Alessandra Baker: I have always loved lingerie! I love the fabrics and the inherent femininity of the category.

HB: You imbue menswear inspiration into the lingerie-that sounds counter-intuitive. How do you make that work?

AB: It is counter-intuitive, but it comes somewhat naturally to me—appropriating something intended for a man and figuring out how to make it feminine while still maintaining a certain ease. It's really about making a garment that is easy and comfortable but also attractive, and inserting hints of detail traditionally associated with menswear.

HB: What were your goals for this collection?

AB: I wanted to create a line of lingerie for the busy, modern woman. I wanted to create pieces to make her feel special and elegant. And, for the most part, garments she can answer the door wearing!

HB: What has been the biggest challenge?

AB: The biggest challenge was just getting started! It's very difficult to take that first step, but once you do, everything follows quite naturally. You are then faced with a new set of challenges almost daily, but that is what makes it fun and keeps it interesting.

HB: Have you always been a lingerie person? What's your philosophy on it?

AB: I have always been a lingerie person—I used to get teased by my college roommate for wearing chemises to sleep! They weren't all that sexy, but at a time of life when most people live in their sweats, I suppose it was unusual.
My philosophy is to look for things that make me feel good and bring out a little more femininity in me. It could be the cut of the garment, the feel of the fabric, the color. Also, the fewer bells and whistles, the better!

HB: How did growing up "in the business" play into your work?

AB: The most influential aspect has been the importance of quality. I'm completely insane about quality. Alessandra Mackenzie garments are made in such a specific way that you could wear them inside out! I think that contributes enormously to something being "luxurious."

HB: Going back to school when you're already established professionally can be a tough decision. What made you go for it?

AB: I'm someone who believes in formal training, so when I decided that I wanted to develop my own collection, it was the next obvious step. It turned out to be one of the best decisions I have ever made. Despite my previous exposure to the fashion business, until you make a pattern or sit at the sewing machine, it's impossible to understand just how much goes into producing the simplest garment. It's hard work!

HB: What's Alessandra Mackenzie lingerie for?

AB: Alessandra Mackenzie lingerie is meant to be an everyday luxury. A reward after a long day. It also works quite well for sleeping in on Sundays…

Advertisement - Continue Reading Below
More From Fashion Designers