Coffee With Alexandra Bee
of Alexandra Bee

Alexandra de Curtis is founder of stylish luxury baby bag label Alexandra Bee. She lives in Rome with her husband and 14 month old daughter Mia and is in the process of launching a new fashion label.

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

What inspired you to create Alexandra Bee?
The idea came from my frustration at never being able to find anything in my bag. There are so many beautiful bags out there but when it comes to finding your keys, they’re a disaster. So, I wanted to create a bag that was beautiful yet practical and could be used as a handbag, changing bag or even an overnight bag.

They've been such a success that we’re now just about to launch our fashion line for women who don’t necessarily want to be seen with a changing bag but appreciate good leather and style.

What makes your product unique?
We produce stylish bags for stylish women. Just because you have a baby doesn't mean you want to compromise on style.

Our changing bags can be used as normal bags as well so they're as perfect for busy working women as they are for yummy mummies.

How do you get a good work/life balance?
It’s really hard! At the moment I’m juggling our changing bags, launching the new fashion line and a one year old daughter! It’s a real challenge!

I do work from home though so I make my own hours which is great but I do find it difficult to switch off in the evening and I often work late into the night.

What’s your best selling product/label?
Definitely the Sophia, everybody loves it - not just due to the practicality of it but the stylishness and versatility of it as well.

How would you characterise your fashion style?
I’d say classic but laid back. I don’t actually follow fashion all that much, I prefer to invest in a few key pieces each season and even then they're not all that fashion led.

Who would you say is your style icon?
I love the way Jennifer Aniston dresses; she’s got a very relaxed style and always looks amazing dressed up or down.

Who is your favourites designer?
If I could I’d be dressed head to toe in Joseph and Max Mara.

Where do you buy your denim and why?
Always Seven for all Mankind; they’re the only ones that fit me.

Heels or flats and where do you buy them?
I used to wear nothing but heels before I got pregnant but now I’m a flats girl through and through.

I’ve actually just bought my first pair of French Soles and they’re so comfortable.

Where did you shop for your maternity wear?
Isabella Oliver. Their clothes are great and their clientele is very similar to ours so I feel like we're on the same wave length.

Where do you shop for your children’s clothes?
Petit Bateau. My daughter is very long and thin so French sizes are perfect for her.

Do you eat organic and live an eco conscious lifestyle?
My husband makes fun of me because I'm recycling mad! You can hardly open our kitchen door for all the different recycling boxes.

I know it sounds silly but because I have to fly a lot now I live in Italy it makes me feel better if I do the little things that help make a difference - energy saving light bulbs and recycling for example.

Do you ever buy food online?
I wish I could out here but Italy is much slower on the online shopping uptake. When I was living in England I used to always shop atNatoora for all their fresh Italian foods. They do the most amazing prosciutto and mozzarella.

What beauty products are currently in your bathroom cabinet?
I’m not huge on beauty, I tend to go with one brand and stick to that. Clarins really suits my skin and it doesn’t smell too much which is perfect for me.

What’s your signature fragrance?
I don’t actually wear any fragrance; I find them very over powering.

What are your three must-have make up products?
Mac Concealer, Givenchy Blusher and L’Oreal Mascara.

How would you describe the style of your home?
It’s got a real Mediterranean feel to it. There are lots of earthy tones, leathers and dark woods. I love it!

Where do you buy your furniture and home accessories?
I absolutely love Lombok! In fact their current catalogue is really similar to the style of our home. I also love going to the fairs in Italy and finding one off pieces.

Bar loo roll and bin bags, what did you last put on your credit card?
Very extravagant I know but I've just bought myself a new Mac computer! I'm absolutely transformed, Apple is amazing!

And finally, where else do you love to indulge?
I’d love to do all my shopping at Net a Porter if I could but with a business and a young daughter it’s not really possible at the moment. Hopefully one day...

Please login below: