Coffee With Alex Finlay of Fin’s

Founder of Fin's for Him, Alexandra Finlay, lives and works in Chelsea.

Her crusade to improve the footwear of all her male friends began in 2008, and has since taken her around the world, shodding celebrities including Sting, Zac Efron and The Hoff.

We had a coffee with Alex to find out what inspired her to set up her own business, dig deep about her shopping habits and discover where she likes to shop online.

What inspired you to create Fin's?
I’ve always known that I wanted to work for myself but just needed the right idea. I was working as a creative consultant for small businesses and spent my life thinking ‘I could do this.’

I came up with the idea for Fin’s after constantly seeing my friends in their old, worn out loafers; they didn’t want to fork out for yet another expensive pair to get the style that they liked. (Believe me, men are far more fussy than you’d ever think!)

The idea stuck and kept playing on my mind so I took the chance and turned it into a reality.

What makes your product unique?
Our very classic style; Fin's is branded as a luxury product but at an affordable price point. There are the Gucci’s and the Tod’s on Bond Street, and then there's Boden and Marks & Spencer but before Fin's, there just wasn’t anything in between.

How do you get a good work/life balance?
It’s a discipline I’ve had to teach myself. Of course, when it’s your own business, it’s in your nature to think about it 24/7 but I’ve taught myself not to. I make sure I leave the office by 7.30pm and try not to talk about it to anyone and everyone.

What’s your best selling piece?
The whole concept is based around one style that's available in fifteen colours. We design for men set in their ways but who still like a bit of choice.

They tend to buy their first pair in the chocolate brown or navy and then come back for a brighter colour. I have Fin’s addicts who have them in every colour.

How would you characterise your fashion style?
I wear anything as long as it’s black, grey, navy or neutral and love to accessorise with a big Marni broach or necklace.

Who would you say is your style icon?
Kate Bosworth. She always looks great!

Who is your favourite designer?
Lanvin and Marni because everything I've bought from them is timeless. I have pieces which I bought years ago but still look fresh today mixed with something from this season.

Where do you buy your denim?
Goldsign at Austique.

Where do you buy your knitwear and why?
When I go to New York I stock up on J Crew, but other than that I love the men’s section of Marks & Spencer for their oversized cashmere.

Heels or flats and where do you buy them?
It depends whether I’ve got a meeting with a man or not!

Louboutin and Miu Miu have to be my ultimate favourites!

Do you eat organic and live an eco-conscious lifestyle?
I buy organic in the supermarket (I do all my big supermarket shops on Ocado.com) but won’t go out of my way to get hold of it and I’m probably not as eco friendly as I should be but my boyfriend and friends are doing their best to convert me!

What beauty products are currently in your bathroom cabinet?
Christian Dior Brume de Poudre Bronzing Spray and the Supracor Stimulite bath mitt from Bliss is amazing!

What’s your signature fragrance?
I mix two fragrances from Diptyque, the Freesia and Tuberose smell amazing together.

What are your three must-have make up products?
Chanel Foundation, Elizabeth Arden 8 Hour Cream and lashings of Max Factor Masterpiece mascara.

How would you describe the style of your home?
It’s like a show flat but I think it’s the prettiest flat in the world! I have big French windows with coral silk blinds and lots of beautiful paintings on the walls.

Where do you buy your furniture and home accessories?
I’m a big believer in antiques and auction rooms. The more you can buy the better because they don’t lose their value.

What was the last thing you put on your credit card?
A lavish trip to LA and dinner at some fabulous restaurants while I was out there.

And finally, where else do you love to indulge?
Net-a-Porter and Asos, not only to buy from but I get lots of inspiration from their websites!

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