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Joie De Vivre: La Perla’s Magali Maenner

Magali Maenner of La Perla for ONS Clothing

At the risk of indulging in hyperbole, we’ll just come out right and say that Magali Maenner is one helluva woman! She’s the CEO of La Perla, North America, but you wouldn’t guess it upon meeting her. She’s just so down-to-earth and approachable, and she possesses that innate, mellow cool the French seem to have in spades. She has lived and worked in major cities all over Europe, and her attractive, inflected English accent adds even more intrigue to her bubbly persona. Even though she practically lives on the road, Magali currently calls Brooklyn, NYC home. Lucky for us, we caught up with her during a break in her incessant travels for a quick interview. Read on below:

Can you briefly tell us about your career trajectory and how you got your position as the CEO of La Perla, North America?

My career in fashion started on the shop floor — working directly with the luxury client and understanding how to grow a business from the ground up. My successes at the store level led me to a lifetime of training other professionals in the fashion industry on how to create a customer experiences like no other. I fell in love with La Perla the minute I tried on my first piece. As I walked through the Paris store, I remember being incredibly inspired by the story of Ada Masotti — a strong female figure and founder who grew her corsetry business into a global brand. Initially I was hired to oversee 5 countries within the European market. My success in those markets lead me to take on the challenge of North America. Most importantly, I am fortunate to work for a company whose product I love, and vision I share.

“My career in fashion started on the shop floor — working directly with the luxury client and understanding how to grow a business from the ground up.”

How demanding is your job; can you give us a brief description of your day-to-day duties/travel involved etc?

I would not describe my job as demanding, because I love every second of it, but there is certainly a large time commitment that comes with any executive position. Typically, I start my day by waking up with my two boys, getting them dressed and ready for the day — all the while answering hundreds of emails from all around the world. My days in NYC can vary with the needs of the business. Some days my schedule is fully booked, bouncing from one meeting to the next, managing the various departments and company activities. Other days, I keep an open schedule to spend time on the shop floor and observe our valuable clients and their needs. I travel close to 50% of the month, seeing some of the greatest cities in America and learning about its culture and people. My role oversees all aspects of the North American business, including retail, wholesale partners, marketing efforts and our visual representation… and the list goes on and on!

Magali Maenner of La Perla for ONS Clothing

La Perla lingerie is known for being extremely sexy (and pricey) – why do you think a modern, stylish woman needs to own at least one La Perla item?

La Perla lingerie is known for its timeless and enduring heritage. Our collection ranges from lingerie, swimwear, sleepwear and now even ready to wear. The La Perla woman is a strong confident, vibrant, empowered woman whose lifestyle demands practicality and elegance.

So, you’re a recent NYC transplant. How are you liking the Big Apple so far?

Prior to my move, I was a regular visitor to this amazing city. I am a lover of art and music, and NYC brings it all together. This city is an incredible melting pot of cultures; I am learning something new and seeing something new every day.

“To be honest, it is impossible for me to compare the cities I have lived in because they all have their own soul.”

In your opinion, how does NYC compare to London and other cities you’ve lived and worked in?

To be honest, it is impossible for me to compare the cities I have lived in because they all have their own soul. Each city brings something different to the table. For me, New York is an open door of possibility and opportunity and I can truly sense that the ‘American Dream’ is very much alive.

Magali Maenner of La Perla for ONS Clothing

We know you’re a true art lover – have you discovered any unique, under-the-radar places to enjoy art in NYC?

With only 6 months under my belt, and constant travel for work, I haven’t had much time to explore the  “under-the-radar” art scene in New York. For the moment, I’ve only had the opportunity to visit the major museums and art institutions that are ‘must-sees’ in the city. So far, the MOMA is my favorite…

“I’m always searching for the next new or underground artist — currently I am loving Christine and the Queens.”

What about music; who are some of your all-time favorite bands and what are you listening to right now?

Radiohead has to be on the top of my list, as my all-time favorite band (I have Radiohead lyrics tattooed on my arm) very closely followed by Bjork. I’m always searching for the next new or underground artist — currently I am loving Christine and the Queens (French artist), Girl Band (Irish punk group), Oscar and the Wolf (Belgian band), and Machinedrum (electronic). My taste in music is very eclectic, spanning from Otis Redding, Massive Attack, Johnny Cash to Joplin, Daft Punk and the essential Bach.

Magali Maenner of La Perla for ONS Clothing

Speaking of Art, you’re kind of a walking art mural; who are some of the artists you have tattooed on your body?

My tattoos represent some of my all-time favorite artists from Picasso, Kandinsky, Chagall to Basquiat, Giacometti and my ultra-talented son, Mael, to name a few. (my other ulra-talented son, Gabriel, writes books)

We have to ask this … you have a really down-to-earth & relatable personality – what’s your secret for having such an electrifying joie de vivre?

It takes work and tons of energy to be “on” all the time, but it’s important for me to be engaging, dynamic, and energetic for my team (not to mention family and friends). I surround myself with people who lift me up, challenge the status quo, and drive the collective to higher achievement. It may be cliché to say, but I truly live every day like it is my last, and I never put something off to tomorrow, when it could be achieved today — that drive and urgency is what fuels so much of my personality.

Magali Maenner of La Perla for ONS Clothing

Lastly, are there any new shops/campaigns coming from La Perla that you can share with our readers?

Fashion, in general, is undergoing crazy amounts of change. You can expect La Perla to be at the forefront of that innovation and change, from growing our digital influence online, to creating one-of-a-kind bespoke experiences within our boutiques.


To keep up with the whirlwind, jet-setting life of Magali Maenner, follow her on Instagram here.

If you liked this story, check out more in our Urban Transplants issue.


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