This season marks 50 years of fashion weeks in Paris. What, for you, makes Paris Fashion Week® unlike any other?
Paris Fashion Week® is the only time you can see the most iconic and influential fashion houses around the world reflect on our contemporary feelings alongside the most exciting voices of not only tomorrow, but right now. But this is not so much about “old” vs “new” as it is a dialogue across culture and identity.
What excites you in fashion right now?
For a long time, designers considered boldness – colours, logos, slogans – as the only way to express personality. At the same time, “chicness” seemed like something that only luxury maisons could create (because of technique, yes, but for a number of other reasons, too.) Today, it feels as though there is a more nuanced approach to expression, wit, and even fun –and many are doing this in an elevated way.
What is one reason to be optimistic about the state of fashion going forward?
This season of New York Fashion Week was the best it's been in a long time. Milan had so many knockout shows; it's impossible to say who was the best – although many come to mind. Paris is, well, Paris. Designers and creatives refuse to stop designing and creating; and that constant will drive us forward as an industry no matter what.
Who or what will drive the greatest change in fashion this year?
Thoughtfulness and lifestyle. Designers and fashion brands are now selling more than just clothing; they are selling an image, a point of view. And if the shopper does not agree with it –morally, creatively, etc. – then they will stop shopping.
What impact might you hope to have on fashion this year?
Through Family Style I hope to tangentialize what many people already know to be true: fashion is more than just material. It's a way of being. It's the way you position your home; the art you collect, where you go to dinner. Through the magazine, we are having cross-categorical conversations through the fashion perspective. The industry has already been so supportive, and I cannot wait for others to join our table.
Can you suggest a fashion mantra as we look ahead to ’25?
Think. Feel. Love.
This interview has been lightly edited.
