REAL TALK WITH

Congratulations on your fortieth anniversary collection for Fall/ Winter 2021. What was the key message you wanted to showcase in this collection?

This collection is a love letter to New York City and the world opening up again. It’s all about getting dressed up and stepping out for a night on the town— something we’ve all missed.

If you could change anything about yourself, what would it be?

I don’t say no often enough! It’s probably my biggest flaw. My calendar is always booked.

If you could dress anyone today, who would it be?

Queen Elizabeth. I think she has great style. It would be divine to see her in Michael Kors.

How have your collections evolved over the last 40 years?

Honestly, I’ve always had a clear vision of what I wanted to design and who I wanted to design for, and I’ve stayed true to that over the last 40 years. My collections

have become a true lifestyle offering and include everything from casual chic to black-tie glamour.

Your designs define chic American sportswear. How did you develop the Kors look?

I started developing it very early on, when I first became obsessed with the original jet set and the images Ron Galella took of style icons like Jackie O, Diana Ross, and Ali MacGraw. They proved to me that it was possible to be chic and effortless at the same time.

What was the first piece you designed?

I had a friend in high school whose dad worked at a denim company. I showed him some sketches for jean designs and he bought two of them. I was thrilled!

What advice would you give your 20-year-old self today?

Be more patient.

Runway looks and handbag from Michael Kors Collection Fall/Winter 2021

REAL TALK WITH... Michael Kors

The legendary designer talks modern Palm Beach style and his fortieth anniversary collection

BY KATHERINE LANDE

DOUGLAS FRIEDMAN

How do you relax?

Nothing makes me feel more relaxed than sitting on the beach with a juicy biography—no calendar or cell phone in sight.

Describe modern Palm Beach style.

Palm Beach style is a fabulous mix of sexy, sporty, and glamorous. White jeans and a hint of gold are modern Palm Beach at its best.

How would you like to see the fashion industry evolve in the next five years?

I would like to see the industry move away from disposability

and fast fashion. I think people are already starting to look at fashion as an investment and thinking about sustainability, longevity, and timelessness.

What are you hopeful for this year?

I’m hopeful for all of us to get back to traveling, exploring the world, and spending more time with friends and family.