As every Project Runway fan knows, Michael Kors gets, um, voluble when talking about fashion. “I am sick and tired of women buying a top for a Friday night and then throwing it away on Sunday!” exclaims the designer. “Forget eco fashion — the greenest thing a woman can do is invest in good pieces that can be worn three different ways.” That includes making smart transitions between seasons: “The idea of a fall- or spring-only wardrobe is old and outmoded,” says Kors. “A dress that works with bare legs and sandals will probably look great with black tights and boots.” A final rule? “Accessories can change the look of a classic item,” he says, pointing to the bike-chain chokers that he paired with LBDs for fall. “It’s not the typical pearl, sweet look; it’s more urban and hard.”

Kors dubs his fall/winter 2009 collection “neo-classic.” “The idea is to take very classic shapes and do them in neon, whether in a cashmere sheath or a shredded fox coat,” he explains. A swirling black-and-white print on a simple shift dress resembles spraypainted graffiti, while black piping makes a red sheath look like a neoprene scuba suit. Even with its jet-set overtones (those neon-pink fur coats!), Kors’ aesthetic — quintessential American sportswear — embodies his native New York, a subject about which he is equally passionate. In fall, Kors stays close to home to enjoy the “crunchy leaves in Central Park” vibe: “It really is the best time to be in the city.”

Michael’s black book

HIS FAVOURITE…
Grooming product “Crème de La Mer.”
Stationery “Cartier.”
Extravagance “Cashmere.”
TV shows “Mad Men, Gossip Girl, American Idol and Dancing With the Stars.”
Hotel “The Grand Hotel Quisisana in Capri, Italy.”
Hotel bar “Bemelmans Bar at the Carlyle in New York.”
Museum “The Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York.”

Read more
View our favourite Michael Kors pieces!
Fall/Winter 2009-2010 must-haves

Don’t forget to enter our summer style contest for your chance to win a shopping spree!