A CONVERSATION WITH MICHAEL KORS
In this MEGA Exclusive, Michael Kors lets us in on his inspiration for the label’s fall/ winter 2019 collection
Blame it on nostalgia or our obsession for anything and everything retro, but clearly, we are experiencing a 70s moment. While pop culture has forever been enamored with the decade, celebrating the era with the release of countless films, TV shows, and a list of series, it seems that fashion has finally caught up, with brands championing the trend. Michael Kors is definitely one of the current instigators as he re-imagines a story on the truly eclectic and highly stylish period, one that is as he reveals, a beloved one for him. Anchoring on unparalleled glamour, he appropriately focuses on great panache, and most importantly, a decided choice to be optimistic.
“I was thinking about New York when I first moved here in the 1970s—it was bursting with creativity in art, in fashion, in theater, in dance. And the sidewalks were an explosion of style. I wanted to imbue the collection with the eccentricity, joy and glamour of that time.” His inspiration, which came via highwattage dresses, dramatic pantsuits, fur and ostrich feather details were an obvious homage to the disco fever vibe. In fact, he took the Studio 54 fixation and brought it to another level by actually partnering
with the iconic nightclub (now a broadway theater company) by coming up with a special line of leather handbags featuring their signature 54 logo. “The pieces from our Studio 54 partnership are special because I spent many, many nights there when I first moved to Manhattan,” he shares. From the very first time I walked in the door, I knew that the mix of style, energy and glamour was truly special and it’s been a source of inspiration to me over all these years.” While the seventies was an obvious reference to the brand’s latest showing, the trademark Michael Kors jet set lifestyle was still a strong focus. “I was designing for a woman who is on the go, but who still wants to find glamour, but also joy in getting dressed. These pieces were really made to travel the world. There is a lot of layering, so everything can be disassembled and worn in a way that works for you, your lifestyle and the occasion.”
Truly, Michael Kors is one of the few labels who stays true to their DNA, executed consistently not only on the clothing collection, but with the accessories as well. In fact, the bags are as strong this season, making them the perfect complement to the wardrobe or even as a stand alone. “A lot of our bags for the season riffed on luggage and vintage steamers—women in cities around the world carry their whole lives in their handbags! And some of the other styles were all about adding a little movement—from leather fringe to feathers— to your everyday look. You’ll also see our new Michael Kors Collection MKC hardware that I think adds a little bit of a polish to the bags.” Whether he is transporting us to the seventies or telling us what’s the next bag to buy, expect one thing: we will definitely listen to whatever he has to say.