Globe-trotters | Alice Heusser and Olivia Kennaway of Lalesso

Lalesso Beach is the creation of Alice Heusser and Olivia Kennaway, who are forever inspired by their lives in Africa and the beautiful fabrics and vibrant patterns that surround them. Read more about their picks from around the globe. 

What creative ventures are you working on at the moment?

We are showing at Africa Fashion Week in October so we are planning and prepping for that. We are also starting to work on our SS/2013 prints, it might sound crazily early but the prints take a long time to get right and we can?t think about the collection until we have our prints.

What are your three favorite off-the-beaten-track stores in the world?

Marula Studios in Nairobi, Kenya is an amazing collective of Kenyan design, all incorporating either an eco or socially responsible element to the designs/brand.

Kaluka, Tahiti, French Polynesia is a perfect holiday shop that sells beautiful kaftans, swimwear and incredible pearl jewellery.

Shopping in Capri, Italy! The combination of stores in Capri combined with the charming cobbled streets makes for the most wonderful shopping experience and you can find some amazing gems amongst them.

How would you describe the signature style of the modern woman?

Women definitely dress with a stronger sense of confidence today, boundaries have been broken or if they haven?t yet they can and will be. I think the modern woman retains her sense of elegance and self respect within that style and at the same time creates looks that demand to be noticed. 

What is your favorite vacation destination? Where do you stay when there?

That?s a tricky one, this planet has too many amazing destinations with such diversity. French Polynesia which is right in the middle of the south Pacific was pretty amazing. I stayed on a yacht for 6 weeks whilst there.

How would you describe your personal style?

Our styles are definitely slightly bohemian, even when doing the more classic sophisticated look there is always a touch of it in there. I like loose fitting yet flattering pieces that have unique details from an interesting back detail to a unique button or whatever it may be.

Do you have any tricks or secrets for traveling in style?

Drink lots of water, invest in a good sized hand luggage carrier so you are not carrying handbags, laptop bags like a bag lady and wash your hair before you fly!

What are three things you have to bring every time you travel (aside from necessities like phone, wallet, passport, etc.)?

Neck pillow, universal adapter and sun glasses.

What city has the best nightlife? What is your favorite spot to visit when there?

Berlin! Berghain has been voted the best club in the world but my favorite is Club de Visionaire in Kreuzberg. It is on a canal and has a lovely ambiance and always plays really great music by younger up and coming DJ?s.

What are three things every woman should have in her wardrobe?

A good leather jacket, that perfect LBD (for when you?re feeling like dressing ?safe?), and the perfect LWD!

What are your top three picks from L-atitude.com?

The Veda Max Classic Leather Jacket is gorgeous, the Nomia Cut Out Shoulder Dress (that?s the kind of detail I love!) and anything from the Lalesso Beach Collection!

What is the best shopping find you've ever made while traveling?

My 70?s vintage Dior sunglasses.

What is your favorite market bazaar to shop at?

The neighborhoods market in Cape Town, it?s on every Saturday and is a perfect place to socialize, eat amazing food, nurse a hangover with a Bloody Mary and find some amazing clothes, shoes, hats etc.

What is one destination you've never been to that you're dying to visit?

SOUTH AMERICA ? anywhere!

To shop the Lalesso Beach Collection please click here.