How important is heritage and legacy for Loewe? It is really important. I always think of it as a foundation for us to look [ahead] ... we have the authenticity of that heritage. We can take the expertise and draw from it. It's not to repeat [what we do] but to take inspirations from them. With 170 years of history, there's plenty in the house. Our only challenge is to find new ideas. When you first started, was it hard to implement new changes within the company, as it is such an institutional brand? Yes, it was. It's an old brand, but it's been through many changes. Spain has been through many changes. People are open to changes. Now we have a new period of change coming, and I'm really excited about the next chapter. Loewe stores are quite accessories-heavy. With designer Jonathan Anderson on board, is the brand going to be more focused on fashion? Not necessarily. Although he is definitely bringing new creative direction and inspiration, Loewe is primarily a leather goods house. [He] is strong on clothing, and I'm sure the collections will reflect that. I don't see the business dynamics changing, though. We'll always be strong on leather goods because that's what we do. In a way, the heart of the house is in its atelier. Loewe's creative directors, from Stuart Vevers previously to Jonathan Anderson presently, are known for their contemporary and modern style. Why is a historical brand using these designers? Our task is to move the fashion world forward. If you stand still, the world moves ahead of you. That's why we are constantly looking to push boundaries. We combine the innovation and talent of someone young and forward-looking with the heritage and authenticity of our house. Jonathan's design concepts require precision to execute - not many houses can deliver that. With the economic downturn in Spain, is international focus becoming more important? Our strategy over the last couple of years has been to keep a close connection with customers without expecting them to buy. Spain has less money today, that's a fact. That's why we have the Loewe Foundation. We have worked on art projects, and we have supported cultural activities. We can have a dialogue with our customers without selling handbags. Stuart Vevers' departure was quite a shock. What was your strategy in dealing with such a crisis? It was a wake-up call. Stuart has been with us for six years, and he's left behind a great legacy. We can take that forward to our next chapter. Do you have any tips for female executives who want to be successful at work and at home? A: Balance and determination [are the keys]. Find the balance that works for you. People's ambitions vary. Women's own perceptions of their abilities often hold them back. [They have to set themselves free] and go for it.
