by Jim Servin
JIM SERVIN: How does fashion enhance wellness?
LUDWIG HEISSMEYER: Fashion can highly impact one’s self-confidence, self-expression, overall motivation and even health. Mackage’s Spring/Summer 2025 collection, The Elements, combines functionality, protection, craftsmanship and design to create luxury outerwear that is comfortable as well as beautiful. All garments are crafted to protect from the elements while using breathable and lightweight materials or construction. Stretch and convertibility add comfort and versatility.
JS: The Elements also represents an intersection between fashion and the environment. What aspects of nature influenced the collection?
LH: The collection was inspired by the four elements: earth, fire, air and water. They are fundamental building blocks and energies that comprise the world around us. Nature is at the very center of it all, and therefore the inspiration itself, guiding the color palette, silhouette and overall approach to design. Nature’s often unpredictable weather patterns challenged the design team and me to create highly functional garments that are suitable for the dynamic climates of spring and summer. Most pieces can be converted and layered in many ways. Implementing and developing sustainable practices and technologies continue to play a huge role when designing any collection to protect and preserve natural resources and ecosystems.
JS: You’re a native of Germany who moved to New York and graduated from FIT. Do you get out to the Hamptons much?
LH: New York City has become my home and source of inspiration. It is as fascinating as overwhelming at times. An escape into nature is not just welcomed but needed. The Hamptons offer such a getaway, year-round. During the winter months, I enjoy strolling through the tree-lit villages, while I prefer the calm of Shelter Island during the summer. Driving down Old Montauk Highway and seeing the ocean peek through from time to time is just stunning.
JS: What role does wellness play in your personal and professional life?
LH: I have noticed that it is the little things that keep me energized, such as taking a moment to breathe, being mindful of my surroundings, incorporating a 30-minute stretch and meditation routine in the morning vs. long gym workouts and trying to spend as much time as possible in nature. I respond very well to a routine, despite my often hectic day-to-day and demanding travel schedule. Personal downtime is very important, and luxury is space and silence. Once recharged, my family and friends take over!
JS: What is your favorite thing to do on a rainy spring day?
LH: I used to dread going out in the rain, but now that I work at an outerwear company, I look forward to rainy days, no matter the season, to wear our beautiful pieces. There is a sense of pride and joy in experiencing the collections firsthand. A stroll in the park or even the commute to work becomes a meaningful experience.
JS: What directions do you see fashion, and your career, taking in the future?
LH: Luckily, fashion is unpredictable in many ways. That’s what makes it so elusive. I find myself very much engaged and excited by my current role. Working at Mackage challenges me to approach design from a different angle. I am still learning about many technical aspects of outerwear, and enjoy working in an ever-changing environment. If I am moving forward and creating, I am happy, no matter what the future holds. mackage.com