Style With Soul Gabriela Hearst’s journey to keeping mind, body and work in sync
Photography by Emiliano Granado
Gabriela Hearst learned her sustainability lessons at an early age, growing up surrounded by horses, cattle and sheep at a remote ranch in Uruguay where everything was put to good use. Now, as a mother of three and with her own eponymous eco-conscious luxury fashion brand, she shares her lessons in wellbeing, which all start with the mind.
How do you remain both calm and creative in a stressful world?
I used to be suspicious of Western people taking Eastern practices, but two years ago I started meditating for 10 minutes before going to bed. It calms my brain; where before stress occupied a lot of my mind space, now lots of ideas show up as it has made me more aware and awake. I use the Muse App via a headband, which monitors brain frequencies and plays soundscapes of birds or waves.
What is your wellness goal of the year?
It’s been the same for years - 56 kilos! But since my third baby that has not happened. Joking aside, wellness is about balancing body, brain and spirit to me. I practice yoga every week with Ivy Askew, my yoga teacher, who knows when to push me or not - health above aesthetics, for sure.
What is your approach to parenting?
Nothing that is worth it is easy. I always wanted to have kids and be fulfilled creatively but there’s always a guilt trip about whether you are doing the right thing. I show my children I love them everyday - that’s a clear message. I encourage them to be themselves and also how to be conscious of the world. No one is perfect, but you can love with everything you have got.
What are your measures in sustainability?
Environmental pollution is the most important threat we are facing as humankind. I refuse to be part of creating negative waste. I want my label to become plastic free by April 2019, we source mindfully and pay close attention to stock making espadrilles out of left over cashmere and satin. Everything needs to find a new purpose. Taking action is also about making beautiful and desirable products.
