Danish model-turned-designer Anine Bing launched her namesake fashion label in 2012. Inspired by Scandinavian simplicity and American energy, she set about building a brand that focused on creating wardrobe essentials and statement pieces for the modern woman seeking a timeless yet rebellious approach to style. MOJEH.com spoke to the successful entrepreneur about why it’s important to take time out and how she fits family around her multi-million dollar business.
What’s your favourite thing to do on the weekend?
If I’m not at work, I spend most of my time at home with my family. I love playing outside in the yard with the kids or making a yummy pasta dinner together in the kitchen. I really use my weekends to recharge and focus on my family and I try to put my phone down as much as possible to have a little break.
How do you de-stress after a busy week?
I try to remind myself it’s important to set aside a few minutes each day to recharge and do something for myself. I love taking a bath at the end of the day and maybe doing a face mask. I try to do something small that will let me feel like I’m treating myself, sometimes that’s simple like eating some Swedish candy and scrolling through Instagram.
How do you successfully fit family around your career?
I’m the first to say I don’t always balance everything perfectly but I try to always be present. If I’m with my kids then I try to put my phone down and focus my attention on them. If I’m at work I try to ask questions and learn everything I can. At the end of the day, I can’t do everything perfectly but I try to remind myself that I’m doing my best and that is enough.
Do you think it’s important to have “me time”?
I feel like I am a better boss, mum and wife when I take a few minutes for myself. I can recharge and prioritise and this makes me ready to handle whatever I need to. I also think it can be easy to feel guilty about taking me time when so many people rely on you, but it’s something you absolutely have to do.
What’s your favourite beauty treatment?
Sheet masks are one of my favorite ways to have a little me time. They are quick and make me feel relaxed and like I’m doing something good for my skin. Lately I’ve been loving the La Mer Sheet Masks.
Do you have any tips for planning your wardrobe for the week ahead?
I have always dressed in a kind of uniform, mostly tee shirts and denim; some days I’ll throw on a leather jacket or a blazer but I wear something similar every day. This is why I created my company, to create pieces that are easy to mix and match. Women are so busy, they’re chasing after kids, working and running to social events so they don’t have time to plan their outfits weeks ahead. I like to have pieces that make me feel confident that I don’t have to think about.
What advice would you give budding entrepreneurs?
My best advice to anyone who wants to start their own company is to trust themselves. There have been times where people didn’t understand what I was trying to do and I pushed on anyway. It’s always in those moments I’m happy that I trusted myself. In the end only you know what’s right for you and you can listen to experts around you and learn but it’s also so important to be confident in what you believe. Also, just breathe, it really does work out in the end.
Three women share their secrets for juggling motherhood and work.
