In an exclusive interview with our magazine, Michael talked about a “favorite” mistake that he would never repeat, and how he watches his fans.
Michael, according to Times magazine, is one of the most influential people on the planet. For many, the Michael Kors brand is in tune with modern elegance and even chic. What do you think about that?
Michael: I'm flattered, thanks. In fact, these are two standards that have always been at the core of the aesthetics of my work, and I remain faithful to them. I think that’s why my fans trust me completely and expect no less return from each new collection.
You have repeatedly become the best designer in the opinion of the Federation of Designers of America, both in men's and women's collections. Which ones are harder for you to create?
Michael: I think these are two completely different, complex, but interesting processes. The main requirement, however, is invariable: clothing must be of high quality and functional. Sometimes it seems to me that engaging in the male line is much more difficult. Once we made the so-called bodysuit (one-piece body shirt) for men. This idea seemed brilliant to me: no need to constantly tuck the shirt inside the trousers! Looking back, I understand that I will never do something like that again ...
What do you think first of all when you imagine yourself in the place of a client of your future collection?
Michael: My clients live a bright, eventful life, so the clothes that I create for them are beautiful, luxurious, and most importantly, practical. Take, for example, an insanely stylish and expensive bag that barely fits lipstick. I think she will not be a hit in your wardrobe.
Or a pound tote bag weighing one kilogram is clearly not what women want for everyday life. And a dress in which one cannot dance - is it possible to have fun in it?
Your Instagram account became the most popular during the last Fashion Week in New York ...
Michael: Yes, I love keeping in touch with my fans online. We continue to increase our presence around the world, and social networks are becoming the best way to communicate. This gives me a chance to look at the world of my fans with their eyes, and they get unique access behind the scenes of Michael Kors and my life.
Such a kind of relationship. In addition, thanks to the Internet and new technologies, our fans from remote regions can watch the live fashion show! In modern society, designers have to be much more creative than before.
When was it easier for you to create clothes - today or 30 years ago?
Michael: The principle of work, along with its tasks and unique solutions, has remained the same as many years ago - I have to think a lot about creating beautiful clothes that will appeal to customers. And, again, collections should be not only aesthetically beautiful, but also practical. Tell us about summer collections.
What surprises have you prepared for us?
Michael: All my life I am inspired by the beauty of nature, and this year I wanted to capture the mood of spring - with all its lightness and the hopes inherent in this period. This summer for Michael Kors I chose white, pearl, sand and green - colors that are often found in nature. Many of them "migrated" to the collection of Michael Michael Kors. The main accents were fuchsia, yellow and blue - those colors that you want to wear for mischief.
What items from the Michael Kors collection convey the brand spirit the most?
Michael: Our summer collection is very light and romantic, while its elements are quite functional and suitable for every day. The idea of the Michael Kors brand is to wear luxury clothes with handmade details, but in silhouettes and shapes that are practical, do not restrict movements and do not cause discomfort. For example, a regular T-shirt made of python skin, or a blouse made of the finest cashmere.
How does your brand feel in the UAE?
Michael: I am impressed by the eastern glamor of the Middle East - this is a world of true exquisite luxury! It seems to me that the fashion industry is becoming more global and erasing borders. Now it doesn’t matter what city you are in - if you look gorgeous in New York, then you will certainly look the same in Shanghai, London and Dubai!
How important is original craftsmanship in a company like Michael Kors? Are there any collections that you are most proud of?
Michael: Mastery is exactly what sets the direction for the whole mechanism of our business. When you have a history of creating luxury clothing that lasts for years, this is luxury. Such things are becoming customers favorites. As for me personally, I can never choose my favorite collection. We have been working on each collection for 9 months, and they all become very expensive and important to me.
You often mention designer Roy Halston in your interviews. How much has he influenced your work?
Michael: Halston was one of the pioneers of American chic sportswear. He truly “polished” the aesthetics of American glamor. And most importantly - he never lost sight of the woman for whom he, in fact, created. It was necessary for him to keep in mind her whims, desires and the rhythm of life.
Recently, you have been actively involved in charity work.
Michael: Yes, the goal of our campaign is to stop hunger on the planet. Watch Hunger Stop is not just a hashtag on social networks or a slogan. The UN World Food Program calls hunger “the world's most solvable task” and works in places where people need food most. Therefore, we decided to support this initiative and use our platform to disseminate information about the campaign among as many people as possible.
