BUT OF KORS

With two East End stores, and a private runway show in Southampton, Michael Kors has your fall essentials all set.

The buzziest words these days in retail aren’t “brick and mortar,” but don’t tell that to Michael Kors, who has two of the highest-grossing stores in the Hamptons. The secret to their success, according to the designer? “They’re relaxed and laid-back but still glamorous.” That’s also a fitting description of the East End.

“I love that you can spend the morning barefoot on the beach, head into town for an amazing lunch, and then shop at great boutiques in the afternoon,” Kors says of the area. “It’s the perfect blend. And proximity means everything.” Kors names Sant Ambroeus as one of his favorite local spots. “Having one right next to my Southampton store is dangerous. I can never say no!” As for other favorites, “I always find something new to be obsessed with at Homenature, Round Swamp Farm has the most delicious prepared foods and desserts in the Hamptons, the Parrish Art Museum’s vast range is always inspiring and the architecture is divine, and I love catching a performance at the Westhampton Beach Performing Arts Center.” Yet even with all this activity, there’s always time for another passion of his—shopping.

Kors, who grew up in the suburbs of Long Island, is first to admit he loves to shop—and that helps him understand his customers. His stores are perfect sources for day-to-evening dressing, and the Southampton location features a large selection of Michael Kors Collection ready-to-wear. “You can find a dress for a special event, or run in and pick up a great sweater if you’re on your way to dinner and realize it’s cold out,” Kors suggests. “The East Hampton store is larger, and customers who shop there tend to gravitate toward shoes and bags. The store features more from our MICHAEL Michael Kors label, both what’s on trend and classic Hamptons pieces like white jeans, straw bags, and great swimwear.”

Fall for Kors is all about feel. “I’m a texture junkie,” he says. “You need a few great, sumptuous knits. Of course, I’m also outerwear-obsessed, so I think every year you should treat yourself to a fabulous new coat. For this season, look for one with a stronger shoulder.” To complete the look, he recommends “a longer skirt that reveals the leg when you walk, and you want a pair of highwaisted pleated trousers.” For this fall, Kors was inspired by the “idea of strength, but looked at through a very sensual lens. The hybrid of those two things,” he says, “is the perfect expression of how people want to look today.” 19 Newtown Lane, East Hampton, 631-267-2200; 30 Main St., Southampton, 631283-2633; michaelkors.com

FOR FALL, KORS WAS INSPIRED BY “THE IDEA OF STRENGTH, BUT LOOKED AT THROUGH A VERY SENSUAL LENS.”