The iconic American fashion designer talks about his love of family, travel, and New York style.

A man is always first defined by his approach to work. What’s yours? I love how I can bring my greatest sources of inspiration – music, iconic art, and American culture – into my work. I’m always looking at new ways to incorporate these things into my designs. You’re known as a family man as much as a fashion designer and entrepreneur. What is the most important thing about being a husband and father? That my family moves and inspires me every day and that their support means the world to me. You’ve always called New York home. What do you love most about the city? There is something about New York City. I’ve lived here for over 30 years and continue to be drawn to the amazing creativity and energy of Manhattan; it’s the ultimate home of iconic American style. You’ve put your name on everything from menswear to perfume and now, you have just signed an agreement with Descamps S.A.S. to launch homeware. Well, we are always looking at opportunities to grow and expand in new markets. I’ve always been inspired by beautiful homes so I’m excited that we are launching a home line. What’s your idea of the ultimate summer holiday destination? My home on Mustique, a quiet Caribbean island in the West Indies, is my favourite place to unwind with my family.

We’ve been vacationing there for years; it’s the perfect spot to relax. What’s your favourite city in Asia and why? In 2012, my wife Dee and I travelled to Tokyo for the opening of the new Tommy Hilfiger flagship store in Omotesando. I was thrilled to be there for the opening of our first Asian flagship – Japan has always been one of my favourite destinations. It inspires me on a personal level as well. You travel constantly. What items do you always take with you? There are a few classic pieces I take with me every time I travel: A tailored navy blazer, chinos, and button-down shirts to mix and match. Versatile, quality pieces are the key to dressing well while travelling. Is there a place you haven’t visited and that you’d really love to see someday? I visited India early on in my career and it continues to be a source of inspiration. I would love to go back to see how the country has changed. Where do you have the most unforgettable stays of your life that you keep going back to? My family goes on a ski holiday each year; skiing is one of our all-time favourite sports. Out west, our top destinations are Aspen and Vail; in France it’s Courchevel. We stay in an incredible apartment in a charming, chic hotel called Saint Roch with a chef, butler, and masseuse to help us stay cosy after skiing all day. Ultimately, what truly drives you? To this day I still love the challenge of constantly reinterpreting my designs in new ways each season to keep the prep look very modern and fresh. Consumers around the world always want something unexpected and exciting, and that’s what drives me.