Quick Q&A with Alexandra Pisco

Alexandra Pisco is one of those powerhouse women working in fashion who knows everyone and knows how to get things done. She started her life in fashion as a designer, learning her trade at Parson’s School of Design in New York, working within a handful of houses before launching her own signature brand in her mid-twenties. The struggles she faced managing the business side her company galvanized Pisco to switch creative gears. She began working at Promostyl a respected trend forecasting company, and eventually launched her own trend and design consultancy business.  

Then in 2007 she was contacted by the city of Lille, France, to run its fashion incubator/accelerator Maisons de Mode, becoming the organization’s director. Over her decade long tenure at Masion de Mode the institution became a benchmark for best practices for fashion incubators across Europe. In 2017 started a new fashion consulting company called Pisco & Co. This time with a focus on the development and promotion of emerging and independent fashion brands in the ever changing global fashion landscape. 

How did you first get interested in fashion?

My mother was a woman of great style and had a passion for fashion. I was raised around beautiful clothes, glamorous women, and was taught to revere good craftsmanship, flair and personal style.

What made you finally decide to launch out on your own and create your own company?

I have had my own company most of my career. I took a nine year break as Director of Maison de Mode Lille to create a top incubator/accelerator. Upon my departure from MdM, I went straight back to running my own company. I enjoy the flexibility and clear vision that one’s own business affords.

What was your big break?

What comes to mind first is the first time I was paid for my design ideas. I was 13 years old, growing up in the Philippines. The ever elegant Chona Recto-Kasten saw my illustrations and offered to buy my sketches for her eponymous brand. It gave me that first confirmation that I had some good ideas!

Who inspires you?

I am inspired by people who have a strong sense of self, while being well aware that they are part of something bigger than themselves.

Simone Veil

Who living or dead would you love to be able to have dinner with?

That’s a very hard one. I have played this game before but was always allowed 8 people… First names that come to mind would be; Cleopatra, Simone Veil, Anne Rice

What is your favorite trip?

One of discovery, but I love reunions too.

When are you happiest?

Hanging out with the people I love.

What is the biggest challenge you are currently facing?

Setting up my new structure while making sure I’m there for my family. But that second part has been a constant for years, as any parent knows.

Mr. Spock

What is your secret talent ?

I’m a Trekkie and I make killer brownies!

What is your motto or the best piece of advice you ever got?

Be serious about your work, but never take yourself too seriously.

Question everything.

What emoji do you use the most?

The wink (often with a kiss)

Jessica Michault

Jessica Michault is the Senior Vice President of industry relations at GPS Radar by Launchmetrics. She is also the editor-at-large for ODDA magazine and contributes to publications like the New York Times, the Business of Fashion, Vogue, Harper's Bazaar and Mixte magazine.