Founder of BRUNETTE The Label, Miriam Alden has many passions: business, the business of fashion, horses and animal activism are just a few. But she recently discovered a new purpose that has captured her heart: creating a platform that helps babes achieve their dreams and connect with like-minded people.
Over the course of her career, Miriam met so many talented people that two years ago she and the BRUNETTE team decided to begin featuring one amazing person a week in the company’s e-commerce emails. What started as a weekly feature quickly grew into something much bigger: The Babe List.
Today, Miriam and the BRUNETTE team launch The Babe List as its own standalone platform. Very much a sister site to BRUNETTE The Label, The Babe List’s mission is to elevate all babes. The sky is the limit!
What does “being a babe” mean to you?
My response to this question changes every day. To me, being a babe is being kind; being open minded instead of leaping into judgement; always learning and being open to development; stepping out of your ego and really listening; and treating other people the way you want to be treated.
I also think that being a babe is caring about people. You have to care to be cared about — there’s nothing more attractive than someone who gives a shit about people and shows love, consideration and affection for the people around them.
Being a babe is working together with others for mutual success. Being collaborative and generous is so important, and I really believe we’re all more successful when we cheer on our peers. There’s more than enough room for every person to succeed.
You talk a lot about work ethic and perseverance. Where did this come from and why do you think it’s important?
My parents both have incredible work ethic, and from a young age I saw the value in working hard to achieve your dreams. My first job was mucking horse stalls when I was nine years old, and then I worked as a mascot for the Burnaby Now newspaper (where my Dad worked) when I was twelve; I continued to work part-time jobs throughout high school. You need a lot more than hard work to be successful (hello, charisma, privilege, money and luck are also very helpful), but I believe that working hard and persevering when things are tough is integral to success.
What current public figures do you look up to?
I admire people who work hard and have passion. I have to start with mentioning Beyoncé — she uses her platform and agency so powerfully, and in this age of overexposure she really understands the allure and power of keeping part of herself hidden. I adore Victoria Beckham — she has created a phenomenal business and she’s funny, which I so appreciate. I’m also a huge fan of Serena Williams — she has elevated her sport with intelligence and integrity, and I find her work ethic very inspiring. All of these women have achieved considerable success while being exceptional mothers, which is awe inspiring to me.
What is the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?
When I was growing up, my Dad would always say to me, “do what you say you’re going to do.” When I was younger, I definitely did not always heed his advice; however, as I’ve gotten older, I realize the power and value of words and how they matter in business, partnerships and relationships.
Doing what you said you would isn’t about being perfect — sometimes there’s traffic or a shipment is delayed and a consequently a commitment isn’t met. But when things go awry, I’ve learned to reset expectations, do my best, be in good communication and treat other people how I would want to be treated.
What are five things we will find in your purse?
My purse is always filled with all sorts of things — I travel a lot, so my purse can get crazy! Some things I make sure I always have on hand: Carmex Moisturizing Lip Balm, Pür Minerals Bronzing Act Matte Bronzer, Polaroid film, a bunch of cords, Chanel Rouge Allure Velvet Lipstick in the shade ‘Nuance 71’ and truthfully, probably some dirt from the barn. Hah!
If you could travel somewhere for 24 hours tomorrow, where would you go? No jet lag, obvs.
Probably the Moon! Seriously. I also have a major craving to check out the South Pacific and I really want to see the Northern Lights.
Diversity and intersectional feminism are big topics in fashion (and the world) right now. How are you working on incorporating these practices into your business?
Right now, I’m really working on listening and learning as much as I can, and creating a platform where all babes can feel empowered. I believe the last decade has brought about so many important conversations that have been a long time coming, and yet there is still so much work to do. There are so many layers to this conversation and so much to work on still.
What qualities do you most admire in the people you work with?
Honesty, compassion, work ethic, individuality, kindness, self awareness and most of all, humility.
If you could choose who played you in a movie about your life, who would it be?
Meryl Streep.
Who is your favourite supermodel?
Oh man, this is a hard one to answer! From the classic supermodel era, I love Helena Christensen, Claudia Schiffer and Christy Crawford, and let’s be honest, no one touches Naomi Campbell — she is a queen. From the newer generation, I really like Kendall Jenner and Bella Hadid. I think Bella has such an interesting look and she likes horses, so that makes me love her!
What is your “power suit”, i.e. the outfit you wear when you want to feel your best?
I have a vintage Chanel blazer that I purchased in Paris when I was going through a transformative period in my life, and it always makes me feel powerful. Maybe it has to do with how I acquired it — I randomly walked into a chic boutique after lunch in Le Marais one day, and this incredibly stylish woman pulled out a jacket that she said was ‘made for me’; sure enough, every time I put it on, I feel unique and pulled together. Aside from that piece, my most-trusted, versatile outfit is my motorcycle jacket, jeans (or a minidress if it’s summer) and sneakers.
What is your go-to karaoke song?
You’re going to think I’m kidding, but no joke — “Fancy” by Reba McEntire. I sing it as a duet with Ryan Pugsley, BRUNETTE The Label’s Marketing Director who is one of my best friends. I think Reba is everything!
What is something about yourself that you’re working on right now?
I am trying to slow down. My work is my life, and I wouldn’t have it any other way — I think most entrepreneurs can relate, in that we don’t really separate our work lives and personal lives. I feel so grateful for everything I have, and I’m also working on slowing down in order to appreciate and savour everything that’s happening.
If you could see or attend any live act in the world, who or what would you see and at what venue?
I would either see a World Cup equestrian event at the Grand Palais, or go see Adele. It doesn’t matter what venue she plays…I would see her anywhere, from a massive stadium to a small theatre.
What are your pet peeves?
Close mindedness and laziness. I don’t have time for either. I also dislike rudeness, but I acknowledge that some people struggle with insecurity and anxiety and it can manifest this way, so I try my best to suspend judgement on this one.
What is a book that you think everyone should read?
I absolutely love Grace Coddington’s memoir — she has lived a fascinating life and I appreciate her fierce dedication to her craft. I also adore The Velveteen Rabbit by Margery Williams, to the point that my favourite quote from the book is framed on my wall. I love the message that true beauty is about authentic love and warmth, not perfection or coldness.
What are three things we would always find in your fridge?
Almond milk, lemons, rosé and triple creme brie.
What is your signature scent?
Diptyque Rose. It smells like my Mom’s garden and Paris, all at the same time.
In your next life, what career would you choose?
I would run an animal sanctuary where I would rescue horses and dogs. I may actually do something like this in the next 10 years.
What historical figures do you admire?
I think Coco Chanel was a trailblazer and way, way ahead of her time from a business perspective. Also, this might sound like I’m being pretentious, but Marcus Aurelius. His philosophical theories are fascinating.
Favourite type of food?
Probably
Who is your favourite Instagram follow?
Derek Blasberg. He is so funny and punny, and he is everywhere!
Click here to visit The Babe Shop!
Keep up with Miriam on Instagram @miriamalden
Introduction written by Alexis Sheridan.
Photography by Ryan Pugsley and Laura Reid.