There’s a reason Tommy Hilfiger‘s fashion shows are among the most highly anticipated ones around—his novel takes on all-American classics never fail to inspire, surprise and awe, and his elaborate sets are always something to look forward to (remember the ski lodge?!). For his 30th anniversary show just a few days away, we’re expecting nothing short of spectacular. With New York Fashion Week currently underway, we got up close and personal with the designer, and had him answer a quick survey of questions that delve into his new fall/winter 2015 collection (no spoilers, promise) and his personal life—that takes all of 10 seconds to read, more or less.
What word describes your fall/winter 2015 collection?
This season is all about giving ’60s and ’70s athletic themes a modern, elevated twist.
What are you listening to right now?
I like a mix of old and new, from Bob Dylan and The Rolling Stones to The Black Keys, Katy Perry and Sam Smith.
Where did you go in preparation for your fall/winter 2015 collection?
Think Ali MacGraw in Love Story meets the modern street style muse.
Last drink I had was…green tea.
What job would you be doing if you weren’t a fashion designer?
When I was a teenager I fell in love with the phenomenon of rock-and-roll and bands like The Beatles and The Rolling Stones. I loved music and wanted to be a rock star, except I couldn’t play an instrument! But I decided I could still look like a rock star, which inspired me to start designing clothes.
Where would you go first in NYC if you were a tourist?
New York City is one of the most inspiring places in the world.
What is your favorite work of art?
I have a passion for art, especially pop art and iconic American artists like Andy Warhol, Keith Haring and Jean-Michel Basquiat. I still think Jasper Johns’s “Flag” would be the ultimate piece to own. It’s on display at the MoMA and I love to see it in person when I’m in New York.
Who is your favorite superhero?
Superman.
What is the first thing you do in the morning?
I like to start my days in Central Park. Nothing beats an early morning jog in the park before the city wakes up.
Who did you design first piece for?
Growing up, my friends and I were obsessed with the cool, big city, rock-and-roll looks we saw on our favorite musicians, but the styles we wanted weren’t available in our small town. I designed my first collection for my friends, and kids like us.
What is your favorite quote of all time?
“If you can’t fly, then run, if you can’t run, then walk, if you can’t walk, then crawl, but whatever you do, you have to keep moving forward.” —Martin Luther King, Jr.
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