Who better to share his NYC than New York-born and bred fashion designer Michael Kors.
Why is New York so iconic?
I’ve been a New Yorker my whole life and it’s the ultimate city for me. The diversity, the food, the culture, the architecture, the energy, and the constant change that at its core make it truly one of the most inspiring places on the planet.
What’s your favorite NYC hotel?
The Carlyle in the heart of the Upper East Side. It’s a New York tradition and old-school luxury at its finest.
Where is culinary heaven?
Anything and everything at Sant Ambroeus—I live near the one in the West Village and love to stop in for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. The hands-down best burger in the city can be found at JG Melon NYC. Peter Luger is my favorite restaurant. It may be in Brooklyn, but it’s a true New York experience, an amazing steakhouse with grumpy waiters and all. I Sodi is simple Italian food done perfectly. And Rao’s—very Frank Sinatra, very New York and they have the best meatballs in the world.
And for cocktails with a view?
Bemelmans Bar to enjoy the view of Ludwig Bemelmans’ murals. The ones of the city in the winter are beautiful. Marie’s Crisis Piano Bar is the city’s best-kept secret for show tunes, stiff drinks, and a fun crowd. After a show, I have a drink at Bar Centrale. Located in a townhouse, the entrance is discreet, giving it a speakeasy feel.
Name your favorite NYC past times?
Seeing a Broadway show—it’s my favorite thing to do when I’m home. If I weren’t a designer I’d be a Broadway producer. I love to check out the MoMA —even if there’s no major exhibit going on. I love to look at the paintings by Mark Rothko and Jackson Pollock, two of my favorite artists. The best views of the city are on the Circle Line Cruise. It’s touristy but totally worth it.
Ultimate hotel spa treatment?
A massage at the Mandarin Oriental near Central Park. It’s the way I find my zen in the middle of Manhattan.
Share your secret shopping hotspots?
Wyeth for beyond-chic home décor and furniture. Resurrection for vintage clothing. They have a great mix of European and American designers. Nusraty Afghan Imports is a hidden gem with a fabulous selection of ethnic jewelry right in Greenwich Village. For a good read Three Lives & Company is one of the few independent bookstores left in the city. It’s the kind of cozy place you could spend the afternoon. John Derian for everything you never knew you needed. From furniture to marble fruit to paperweights, it’s impossible to leave.
Tell us about your personal signature fashion and interior style?
My uniform is a black shirt, black blazer, and jeans with New Balance sneakers and of course, my aviators.
And finally what’s on the radar for Fall 2020?
Style that stands the test of time. My inspiration was cozy glamour, town and country, relaxed chic with an urban sense of polish, languid silhouettes, cowl and high necks, sharp tailoring, and longer lengths. Key pieces and trends are blanket coats, capes, ponchos, luxurious knits, pleated sleeves, skirts, and dress. It’s the season of the boot, flat riding boots, rugged over the knee wellies, and sleek stacked-heel city boots. For bags, a neatly tailored messenger or satchel worn crossbody and hands-free.
