Profile: Pierre Frey

Pierre Frey, grandson to the man who founded the company that bears his name, was born in April 1976 in Paris. Although he spent his years living and studying in Paris, he and his family traveled extensively, particularly to the United States. His childhood included the very American ritual of summer camp in Maine and New Hampshire.

After 5 years of business school between Paris and London, Pierre decided to join the prestigious family business. His father, wanting a well-rounded training for Pierre, insisted that he learn all aspects of the business and arranged for internships at various company mills.

His first area of responsibility was the Middle East region (Dubai, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Lebanon, Qatar), followed by Southern Europe, Asia and finally France before moving to the US. Now based in New York, Pierre spends more than half of his time traveling the US and Canada to oversee sales and business development.

How would you describe your personal style?
French vintage chic. I believe there is no harm in wearing H&M, but never fail to have beautiful shoes and a custom shirt.

What inspires your creativity?
Eclectic people and travel

What is your most prized possession?
Family

What is the one thing in life you cannot live without?
La Maison PIERRE FREY

Who are your style icons?
Style is synonymous to me with Yves Saint Laurent, Phillipe Starck and Alberto Pinto.

Who would you most like to collaborate with on a project?
I love to give fashion designers the opportunity to work in interior design. We recently had a hit collection with Jean-Charles de Castelbajac but I would love to pursue Paul Smith for his colors, Marc Jacob for his creativity or Karl Lagerfeld for his elegance.

What books are currently on your bedside table?
I just finished Stieg Larsson's Millenium books, the best seller in Europe last summer, I can't believe its still not sold in the US. I just started Downtown by Pete Hamill, a former editor of both the NY Post & NY Daily News who describes downtown New York with the most interesting historical details.

What is your favorite luxury in life?
I have a quite large shoe collection

What is your idea of earthly happiness?
A holiday with friends on the other side of the world. Past indulgences include Lamu, Kenya; Mykonos; Trancoso, Brazil. Being able to bring my globally scattered best friends together for any unforgettable experience is total luxury.

Past or present who has most influenced your direction in life?
My grandfather, Pierre Frey.

Who would you most like to meet and how would you spend the day?
President Obama. Breakfast in the White House, champagne in the oval office, maybe a ride in Marine One and finishing the day with a state dinner honoring France.

Profile by Ronda Carman