Michael Kors’ Love for New York City Explored
Michael Kors, a renowned fashion designer, has a deep love affair with New York City that dates back to his teenage years. Growing up in Merrick, Long Island, Kors would often make trips into Manhattan, where he later attended the Fashion Institute of Technology and frequented Studio 54. It was at Lothar’s, a boutique on 57th Street, that Kors began his journey into the world of fashion. While working there, he designed his own clothes and caught the attention of Dawn Mello, a legendary fashion director. This encounter led to the debut of Michael Kors Collection in 1981, marking the beginning of his successful career in the fashion industry.
In celebration of his 40th year in business, Kors recently staged a runway show in Times Square, featuring an array of supermodels and showcasing his fall collection. One of the models who walked the show was Irina Shayk, a Russian-born beauty who has called New York City home for over a decade. For Shayk, the city represents life and energy, providing endless opportunities for those willing to chase their dreams.
In a candid conversation between Kors and Shayk, the two discussed their humble beginnings and the influences that shaped their paths in the fashion world. Kors shared his early experiences working at Lothar’s and interacting with iconic figures like Jackie Kennedy, Diana Ross, and Gianni Agnelli. These encounters taught him valuable lessons about the intersection of glamour and human connection in the world of fashion.
Shayk, on the other hand, reflected on her upbringing in a small village in Russia and the impact of her grandmother’s resilience and positivity. Despite facing hardships, Shayk’s grandmother always emphasized the importance of inner beauty and the value of relationships over material possessions. These values have stayed with Shayk throughout her career as a model and have inspired her to find beauty in simplicity.
As Kors and Shayk delved into their shared experiences of meeting influential figures and navigating the fast-paced world of fashion, they both emphasized the importance of maintaining a sense of humor and humility. Kors recalled memorable encounters with celebrities like Barbra Streisand and President Obama, highlighting the fact that no matter how successful someone may be, we are all human at the end of the day.
Their conversation revealed a mutual appreciation for New York City as a place of endless possibilities and a melting pot of cultures and ideas. Kors and Shayk both credited the city with providing them the motivation and inspiration to pursue their dreams and succeed in an industry that thrives on innovation and creativity.
In conclusion, Michael Kors’ enduring love for New York City is a testament to the city’s ability to inspire and empower individuals from all walks of life. Through his 40-year career in the fashion industry, Kors has remained true to his roots and continues to find inspiration in the vibrant energy of the city that never sleeps. As he looks ahead to the future, Kors remains committed to using his platform for positive change and supporting causes that make a difference in the world.
