SELFRIDGES MEETS: Michael Kors

To celebrate the launch of Michael Kors Collection on selfridges.com, we caught up with the charismatic New York designer who shared his tips for great AW15 style.

How would you describe Michael Kors Collection in three words?
Chic, sporty and sophisticated. 

What was the inspiration behind the AW15 collection?
It was all about this idea of contradiction. We were thinking about a woman who understands something that is completely glamorous and opulent but at the same time quieter and more restrained. It’s an under-the-radar type of luxury. 

Do you have a muse?
I have many, many muses and they all sort of add up to form the Michael Kors woman. I’m always looking at the women who can do it all — who can juggle a family, friends, a career and still look fabulous every step of the way. Everyone from Angelina Jolie to Blake Lively to the women in my office and my friends and family play a role in our design process. 

What key pieces should every woman invest in this season and what should they avoid? 
I think every woman needs a great pant that’s a little more on the sporty side, a sumptuous knit, a simple bias tank dress in satin or knit and a perfectly tailored menswear-inspired coat. From there, I think women should explore pajama dressing, head-to-toe knit looks and more menswear-inspired pieces, depending on their mood and their lifestyle. I’d say avoid really bright, neon colours — fall is about a more laid-back approach. 

What do you think is the most underrated fashion item and why?
A crisp black or white t-shirt — they go with absolutely everything and can be easily dressed up or down. 

Is there anything you know now which you wish you'd known when you started out?
Take it slow and really define who it is you want to make clothes for. People are going to try to change your mind or persuade you to follow trends, but if you really stay true to yourself and who you think your customer is, then your chances for success are much greater. You need to have a vision and something to stand for. 

What's the one piece of clothing you wish you'd invented?
A plain white t-shirt. It will forever be in every fashionable person’s closet. 

You have a big following on Instagram. Who's your favourite person to follow? 
I like to follow friends that I don’t always get to see — like Daria Werbowy, Kate Hudson and Anna Dello Russo. I love when people’s personalities really shine through on Instagram. 

If you could swap places with anyone for the day, who would it be?
Cher — I can’t sing or dance, but I’ve always wished I could. 

Tell us something about yourself that most people don't know…
I was born Carl Anderson — I changed my name when I was 5 when my mother got re-married. My nickname was Chuckie. Thank god I changed it because otherwise my company would be called Chuck Anderson! 

Who would play you in the movie of your life?
Daniel Craig if we’re going for drama, Will Ferrell if we’re going for comedy.  

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