By Amanda Eberstein
Alexandre Assouline in his New York apartment. Portrait by Stefano Ukmar.
Audemars Piguet Royal Oak: From Iconoclast to Icon.
As the chief of operations, brand and strategy for Assouline—the international publishing house founded by his parents in 1994—Alexandre Assouline is constantly scouring the globe for the best and brightest in the worlds of fashion, travel, culture, lifestyle and design. “I see Assouline as a luxury storyteller who always strives for the finest content and quality,” says the Paris-born, New York-based literary scion. “Whether curating objects for libraries or creating new edition titles, everything we do exists with this in mind.” Which is why he is particularly excited that the company has chosen Bal Harbour as the site of Assouline’s newest retail boutique. “It’s a major milestone for a brand like ours to now be part of the conversation in such an iconic location.” Here, we catch up about a few of his must-haves for fall, go-to wardrobe staples and where he’ll be traveling to this season.
What do you love about Miami?
It’s a different pace and quality of life. New York is hectic. You work a lot, and then you socialize a lot. In Miami, you get to take a step back, appreciate nature and enjoy yourself a little more. It’s a good balance.
How does the city inspire your personal style?
I love to present myself in a suit most of the time. I think it’s important and shows a level of respect for the people I work with, as well as my clients. In Miami, I can wear more colors and even a T-shirt and jeans, but it will be very put-together. Everything I do is work in some capacity. Even if I travel here for a holiday weekend, I’ll be sure to take care of the store and meet with potential partners.
What are your upcoming travel plans?
I will visit London and Paris this fall for work and then, at the end of December, I always go to Marrakech. My father is Moroccan, so I love to reconnect with that country, which is very much a part of myself. I usually stay with friends, but my favorite hotel is La Mamounia.
What are your favorite restaurants at the Bal Harbour Shops?
I go to Hillstone, which is right next to us, so I have a nice view of our space. They have very American portions, but the food is good. And Makoto for sushi and great cocktails.
Assouline’s Bal Harbour boutique is located on Level Two, a stone’s throw from Hillstone.
What fall releases from Assouline are you most excited about?
There are two phenomenal projects that we have been working on that are very dear to my heart. “Audemars Piguet Royal Oak: From Iconoclast to Icon” is a beautiful book celebrating 50 years of the brand’s most iconic watch. We will be celebrating the official launch at our Bal Harbour store in December. We have also partnered with Louis Vuitton to create a book honoring Virgil Abloh, highlighting his time at the helm of the menswear division. We have done one beautiful Ultimate book and two classic versions with different covers. It’s filled with exclusive content that hasn’t been seen anywhere else.
What are some of the favorite design pieces that you own?
I am very into hosting people in my apartment for dinners and such, so I put a big focus on my table and chairs. I recently purchased the LessLess table by Jean Nouvel in red, which is Assouline’s signature color and very important to me. The table is surrounded by eight Superleggera chairs by Gio Ponti that bring a lot of character to my home.
Do you have a go-to shoe?
It’s either Loro Piana suede Summer Walks or classic white Converse. Three days one, four days the other. That’s it.
What about a bathing suit?
I wear Thorsun. I love the prints and the fit. My friend started the brand a few years ago and now they have a pop-up in New York and are sold at The Webster.
What are some of your go-to brands?
All my suits are from a tiny shop in Paris called Wicket. They have great patterns and cuts. I go to Orlebar Brown for my T-shirts. I love the retail experience and they have great colors. My jeans are Uniqlo and I prefer Cremieux for dress shirts and jackets.
Photo by Chris Carter (Assouline), Courtesy of Loro Piana, Assouline, La Mamounia.
