It’s been nearly 30 years since Tommy Hilfiger, 62, appeared on the global fashion scene with his now iconic look pairing classic Americana with street-style and urban edge. Today, the “Tommy” brand signifies not just a spirit of free-living, but Hilfiger’s own well-chronicled entrepreneurism.
Indeed, along with designing his signature fashion lines, Hilfiger has recently snapped up Miami’s iconic Raleigh Hotel, which he intends to restore and restyle with his own tell-tale wit and whimsy. Also newly arrived is Hilfiger’s latest homeware collection — a full range of colorful, practical pieces for every room and mood. There are candlesticks and picture frames, vases and seating poufs, and an expanded array of comfy bedding items (available at Macy’s mid-March, ranging from $35 towels to $425 quilts; usa.tommy.com). As his new pieces begin to hit stores, we spoke with Hilfiger — a noted art collector — about the intersections between homeware and fashion.
When it comes to fabrics, the most important quality has to be how it feels to the touch. I prefer natural fabrics, like fine cottons, linens, silks and cashmeres — never fabrics that are synthetic. Though for the home, cotton is really a stable. And I prefer fabrics with simple patterns; never anything over-complicated or unfocused.
For me, the most inspiring period in design has to be Art Deco. I love the simplicity of Art Deco, but also the beauty and brilliance of its metal, marble and mirror-work. Icons like the Chrysler Building epitomize it.
I love to shop worldwide for great home design pieces, especially in the major cities such as Paris and Los Angeles — though New York certainly has some great spaces. Still, one of my favorite places for antiques is actually far more under-the-radar — Hampton Antique Galleries (hamptonsantiquegalleries.com) in Stamford, Conn.
London is probably the most important design destination for me because the city truly has it all. There are great modern elements, but also it has a very Old World edge to it. One of my favorite hotels there has to be Claridge’s (claridges.co.uk), an Art Deco gem which is incredibly authentic, original and chic. I am also a fan of LA — I love that sense of old Hollywood glamour that inspires us all.
Fashion design and homeware design certainly overlap because it’s all about creativity. No matter what we design, our goal is to always look back to the past while trying to remain relevant and meaningful for today’s consumer.
My family is a key form of inspiration for me — both my wife, Dee, and daughter, Ally. Dee has amazing taste, particularly when it comes to vintage pieces, which she pairs with modern items to create a unique look. She was particularly important in designing our new home in Miami, which she gave a very modern, ’60s look.