If anyone knows how to recognize talent, it’s Tommy Hilfiger! Not only has the designer worked with some of the best models and performers in the industry, but he continuously adapts to the changing market, becoming one of the most prominent designers to launch a “See Now, Buy Now” collection during New York Fashion Week and looking beyond the traditional casting norms when selecting models and campaign stars. Tommy stopped by the HollywoodLife.com podcast where he opened up about everything from his successful career to his famous industry friends, giving us a hint of what we can expect to read in his memoir, American Dreamer!
While many in the fashion industry may scoff at Kanye West, Tommy appreciates his vision. “Kanye is a friend. I’ve had lengthy conversations with him. He’s been in my home, my apt here in NY. He’s friendly with my wife, Dee. He’s met my kids. He is a genius. He does have a vision that is beyond anyone else’s. I really believe in some point and time, he’s going to be one of the more powerful forces in the fashion industry. He’s disruptive and breakthrough. I really respect that. Some people criticize him for comparing himself with some geniuses in the industry, but eccentricity also comes with genius. I think he has that,” he said.
SHOP The TommyxGigi Collection Here
The designer recognizes Kanye’s individuality and the importance it serves, especially in the current market. “People want to be individuals now. Years back, people would buy Prada head to toe. Some would buy Louis Vuitton head to toe. It doesn’t work that way anymore. You can buy something from Zara, wear something vintage, wear something from Tommy, wear something from Converse, throw it all together and you like it and it feels great on you, it’s cool. It’s about individualism,” he said.
Tommy Launches The TommyXGigi Collection At New York Fashion Week
Tommy also shared a secret behind his success. “When you love what you do, it’s not work. That’s what I tell young people and my children. Do what you love, and it won’t be work. Do what you love doing on a day to day basis so that you can get out of bed in the morning you can’t wait to get up. I think the people who we’re talking about are those special people who have this dream of doing everything in their power to realize it and nothing comes in their way. You have to be passionate, you have to love it, but you also have to be prepared to meet obstacles along the way, roadblocks. People who say no you can’t do that, it can’t be done. Forget it. I don’t take no for an answer and I don’t like rules. I really like breaking any type of rules. Seriously, why would I want to do what everyone else is doing?”
For more from Tommy, listen to the podcast above and be sure to read his memoir, American Dreamer, for more on Tommy’s successful career.