Fashion & Beauty

On Kors

New York Post: You’ve been a fashion designer for more than 30 years — what are the biggest lessons you’ve learned?

* MICHAEL KORS: I’ve learned that the rules are always changing, and you have to stay on your toes.After 30 years, I still feel challenged. Younger designers often ask me, “How do you know when you’ve made it?” and I always respond, “When you think you’ve made it, you’re done for!”

NYP: Does your recognition from “Project Runway” contribute to your brand’s success?

* MK: Before “Project Runway” I dressed a broad age-range from 20 to 80. Since the show, I have fans as young as 12 and who are on their way to becoming future clients. Sunglasses and key chains today and a whole wardrobe in the future!

NYP:
Tell us something about Nina Garcia and Heidi Klum we don’t know.

* MK: As beautiful and successful as these women are, they are incredibly silly and love to have a good time. I think you could do a show just around us hanging out on set — there is never a dull moment!

NYP: What’s the biggest fashion disaster you’ve ever had?

* MK: In the early nineties I had a show in a fabulous empty loft space in Midtown. Naomi Campbell wore the fifth look, and after she walked the runway she hurried backstage saying that the ceiling had fallen! It turned out that plaster fell from the ceiling and landed on top of [fashion editor of the International Herald Tribune] Suzy Menkes and [fashion editor at Vogue] Carrie Donovan. Shortly thereafter, Suzy wrote a story saying that New York designers were presenting fabulous-looking clothes but how could New York ever hope to be a true fashion capital without an organized venue system? The next thing you know, you started seeing the beginning of what Fashion Week is now. A disaster no doubt — but in the long run, it was probably for the best!

NYP: You wear a uniform of jeans, tees and blazers. Why?

* MK: When I was younger I was a total fashion victim. As I got older (and way busier), I became more edited in my choices and now I have a very specific roster of clothing. You may find me in white pants during the summer, but that’s about as much as I’ll stray — unless I’m at the beach, and then I switch to olive or khaki on bottom.

NYP: Who’s your fave celebrity to dress?

* MK: There are so many women I love to see in my clothes — all for their own reasons. Michelle Obama is the ultimate juggler — smart, stylish and confident. Gwyneth Paltrow is both sexy and sporty. Angelina Jolie truly embodies the jet-set lifestyle that my brand is all about. She always gets it right. But I have to say that I am just as inspired by the “real women” I see every day on the streets.

Any top tips for looking taller and thinner?

* MK: Get everything tailored. Fit is everything!

Dress according to your proportions to best show off your figure. If you’re petite, elongate your legs with mid-length hems and stay away from maxi skirts and dresses. It sounds cliché, but every woman should have a black sheath dress. And above all, know what works for you. If the trend of the season doesn’t flatter your figure, skip it.

NYP: Is there one item of clothing that you think should be banished forever?

* MK: Elastic bottom shorts — let’s face it, even Gisele can’t rock bloomers.

NYP: You’re a newlywed — congratulations! How was the big day?

* MK: To marry someone as wonderful and special to me as Lance [Le Pere, Kors’ longtime partner], barefoot on a glorious beach, is more than I could have dreamed of.

NYP: Any tips for FNO?

* MK: It’s going to be madness, so plan ahead and map out your itinerary, but don’t take it too seriously. If you end up caught in the crowds, just enjoy it. The chaos is a part of what it’s all about.

NYP: What are you most looking forward to?

* MK: The Rockettes performing at our new Rockefeller Center store (600 Fifth Ave.). I’m so excited I may have to join in!