In 2002, combining her love of fabric & design with her passion for Yoga & Pilates, Alice Asquith founded eco activewear brand Asquith London. Seventeen successful years later the love that inspired her continues and here she talks to us about the things which are important to her every day…
Q: How do you start your day?
A: I get up at 6am every day. After a shower, I meditate for 20 minutes. I practice Vedic mediation and have done for over 9 years. I also meditate in the evening for 20 minutes. Every day. I feel totally discombobulated if I miss one. I then start the day with some stretches whilst listening to Radio 6. Then Apple cider vinegar diluted in water. It really helps my digestion. Then a green smoothie bowl.
Q: What gets you going? (exercise/ wellbeing routine)
A: I’m a Class Pass fanatic. I usually exercise 5 days a week and love to vary my exercise so I don’t get bored. I do HIIT, TRX, weights, spinning, Reformer Pilates, 80’s Aerobics. I do a yoga class one evening a week. I’m fitter and have more energy than I have been for years.
Q: Where you are most inspired?
A: Nature inspires me. This year I went to Kew Gardens and the colours blew my mind. I’m always keeping an eye open thinking about colours for the next collection. I also love the V&A. I’ve been going there since I was a child. I see every exhibition they have. And just wandering around the rooms…the craftsmanship is magical and always inspirational.
Q: You are a successful business woman now, but what advice would you give your younger self?
A: Research your market thoroughly. And trust your intuition. Whenever I haven’t it’s bitten me on the bottom.
Q: What cause are you currently championing?
A: Not buying more than you need and not throwing things away. Be it food or fashion. Asquith is the antithesis of disposable fashion. We create multifunctional styles that last because of their quality – they wash and wear well. I grew up wearing beautiful, handmade clothes (designed and made by my mother) therefore I value quality in food and fabrics. And staying well clear of plastic.
Q: How do you relax and switch off?
A: Other than meditation I love walking; my local park is Hyde Park and I love watching the seasons change. I don’t drive so I walk everywhere. And I love dancing; I do a fabulous and fun 80’s Aerobics class every week & I love dancing and listening to music – they’re both good for the soul.
Q: What’s your guilty pleasure?
A: Crisps. I absolutely can’t resist them!
Q: You have to choose only one beauty product to use for the next 7 days, what would you pick?
A: Liz Earle Cleanse & Polish. It’s superb. And I’ve met and worked with Liz Earle and she’s a true inspiration and a lovely person too.
Q: Do you sleep well, what is your bedtime routine?
A: I have had battles with my sleep in the past but I’m getting through the other side of it now. I switch off all devices by latest 9pm, drink only herbal tea after 11am, have a dark, cool room and wind down slowly by dimming my lighting. I always read in bed and I take Magnesium, Pukka Night Time and use ThisWorks pillow spray.
Q: And the final question… you favourite Holistic Silk item and why?
A: Holistic Silk Lavender Eye Mask. Without a doubt. Joanna, Holistic Silk founder, has been a close friend of mine for over 18 years, and I marvelled then at her creating this product and I still love it and marvel at it today. It’s genius!
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Designed for yoga, Pilates and living in, Asquith’s elegant but functional activewear is ethically made in Europe using the finest quality, eco performance fabrics that don’t fade, bobble or stretch and will effortlessly take you straight from street to studio.
We are delighted that Alice is offering our readers an exclusive 20% discount on her Spring Summer ’19 collection. To enjoy your 20% off the Asquith Spring collection simply enter code HOLISTIC20 at the checkout.