What makes Eric Bompard’s cashmere so soft?
Eric Bompard cashmere is sourced in the outer regions of Mongolia at an altitude of over 3,000m from small Capra Hisca breed goats and their long soft hair that protects them from freezing temperatures. This extraordinary material is used for Eric Bompard cashmere and the combination of the Mongolia wools with a traditional knitting technique results in cashmere of incomparable comfort and softness.
Who is your style icon and why?
I think Sophie Marceau is extremely stylish. She is the epitome of the French woman – classic, elegant and polished with timeless style.
Who is your favourite French designer?
I am a fan of French label Carven for their simple and refined designs.
What is in your fridge at the moment?
Lots of fresh vegetables and salad, an array of wonderful cheeses and Figaro Noir dark chocolate from La Maison du Chocolat.
What’s your top tip for picking the right knit?
Cashmere is a wonderfully versatile fabric and is suited to all seasons. Choose a thick 12-ply knit for the colder months that will keep you warm and cosy or a lightweight two-ply knit for the summer months as the natural fabric will keep you cool and comfortable in warmer climates.
What fashion item could you not live without?
A large cashmere scarf. I simply cannot be without one as they are so versatile. A bright-printed style will lift any outfit and will work to keep you warm in the winter, act as a pashmina for warm summer evenings and is a must-have when travelling. It acts as a gorgeous soft and warm blanket on planes and I’ve even used one as a sarong on summer holidays.
What has been your proudest moment?
In my career, when we opened our store on King’s Road in London in 2008. In my private life, this was obviously the birth of my children.
Monica Bellucci is the new face of Bompard. Why was she such a good fit for the brand?
Monica Bellucci is globally recognised for her refined femininity and incarnates the ethos of the house of Bompard – elegance, modernity and timeless style. She is a beautiful woman with a strong personality and a gifted actress. She knows how to give a very personal touch to all the cashmere pieces she is wearing.
How would you describe your personal style?
I am a cashmere girl fond of warm colours.
What is your most cherished childhood film?
My favourite film was the Sound of Music – I can watch it over and over again.
What is your favourite piece from the Bompard collection?
I am a huge fan of the cashmere outerwear and for this AW11 season, I love the new double-breasted sailor jacket. The nautical trend will continue to be current for many seasons to come and it is an extremely versatile piece.
What are your aspirations for this year?
I’m wishing for a peaceful and wonderful cashmere year.
What’s your philosophy on life?
I often read On The Shortness of Life, one of Lucius Seneca‘s most famous letters, and like this part; ‘Unless you seize the day, it flees. Even though you seize it, it still will flee; therefore you must vie with time’s swiftness in the speed of using it, and, as from a torrent that rushes by and will not always flow, you must drink quickly.’
