FASHION in the Fast Lane
This year, the Fireside Chat line-up features a lively session presented by Maserati that explores the impact of fashion on the automobile industry. Recognizing that fashion and luxury have long crossed paths, the dialogue will explore the extent to which choice of car is as much an indicator of personal style as clothing, in addition to the ways in which automotive design takes its cue from the fashion industry, and vice versa. Laura Brown, Editor-in-Chief of prominent U.S. women's fashion magazine, InStyle, leads the session.
The Quail: You’re often described as being personable and “down to earth”. What character traits do you feel are important when working in fashion?
Laura Brown: I do try to be very personable and down to earth, especially in an industry where it's perceived as being very rare. I think what you really need to “get ahead” in fashion more than anything else is enthusiasm, and to be happy and appreciate where you are. The ability to make things happen and get things done is also important.
TQ: To what extent do you feel the fashion industry influences car purchasing choices?
LB: Fashion influences everything: the food we eat, the cars we drive. Whether you consciously think about fashion or not, you make decisions about what you're putting on in the morning. Choosing a car depends on whether you have the luxury of buying a beautifully designed car, or if you're simply buying one to get you to work. But either way, you have a choice of color. I think it's great that you can get into a sports car and it's got red leather in it. It can make you feel all red-leathery and sexy. Or if you want to feel sedate and chic, many people in fashion like navy. Navy Range Rovers, vintage Porsches or vintage Mercedes are very fashionable. I'm just happy to get in one and get to where I need to go - the more comfortable and glorious the better.
TQ: To what extent do you see a person’s choice of car as an extension of their personality?
LB: I think it's fascinating. Cars show what you want to show off and the level of confidence you have in yourself. If someone chooses a car to communicate their style, then go nuts!
TQ: How would you describe your relationship with cars?
LB: I can't drive, this is key here! Once I went on a Rolls-Royce junket to Palm Springs and I neglected to tell them that I couldn't drive! I love cars! I make it a crack, though, because I didn't ever get my driver's license, so I say, “I don't drive, I'm driven”, like I'm posh or entitled or something! I live in New York City so I'm often in the back seat of a car, but I do love being able to sit in the front passenger seat and drive around America, which is such a joy for my boyfriend and I. We occasionally borrow a Maserati, but we don't take it for granted as you'll see it all over our Instagram! It's a real luxury to be spoiled in a car, and I hope everybody gets a chance to do that.