Anine Bing on Her Work Uniform and the Book Every Creative Needs to Read

You’re huge on social media. Do you have a personal social media philosophy?

“Be true, be you.” That’s my mantra in life. I love photography. I have a Leica camera that I shoot all my content on, and I love black-and-white timeless pictures. I really just try to show everybody a glimpse into my life: It could be from the design studio; I also am making music again; my favorite beauty products. I don’t feel any pressure. And then the brand, of course, has its own Instagram that shares all the products, and the bigger picture for the brand.

What is the best career advice you’ve ever received?

I think it was from my husband when we started the business together 12 years ago. He told me it was important to know every aspect of the business, because you hire a team and have a better understanding of what everybody is doing. So in the beginning we packed all the orders, did customer service, designed the clothes. We did everything. Today with over 200 employees, I have a better understanding of what each of them are doing. So I think it is to get your hands dirty and do the hard work and build from there.

What are some of the beauty products you use every day?

I wash my face every day with the OleHenriksen Truth Juice Daily Cleanser. So the cleanser is definitely a favorite in the morning. Then I also love the Strength Peptide Boost Moisturizer. I use that morning and night. Sometimes I do the Cold Plunge Mask if I wake up tired and I really want to get my skin glowing and going. And then always an eye cream.

What was the first moment in your career when you felt like you’d made it?

I feel like this past year, having Kate Moss as the face of the brand. I know that is 11 years into the brand—I’m sure there have been other moments—but this past year has been so huge for the brand and for me personally, so to have Kate Moss was such a milestone.

Do you have a work uniform?

I’m all about uniform dressing. When I know I have a busy day, I’ll put on a good pair of denim, white T-shirt, and a blazer, and I feel like the best version of myself. Maybe I’ll put on a pair of pumps or flats. But a good blazer is perfect for any occasion.

What is the last great book you read?

I’m currently reading a really great book. It’s called The Creative Act: A Way of Being by Rick Rubin. Especially for creative people, or for anybody, I feel like this is such a great book. But for me as a creative person, I feel that he gets me and our way of thinking and doing. It’s really beautiful, and every page has something inspiring to say.

What’s a low-stakes treat you like to indulge in at the end of a long day?