Here's the scoop. First, let me preface by saying he's exactly the same man in real life as he is on TV. He was extremely eloquent and so on point during the Q&A.
Quick background: Tim Gunn was part of the faculty at Parson's for about 20 years and by 2000, he had become the Chair of Fashion Design. The CEO of Liz Claiborne, recognizing Gunn's expert sense of style and mentor persona on Project Runway, decided he was someone who could to reinvigorate their brands. So in 2007 he became Chief Creative Officer, in charge of popular labels like Juicy Couture, Kate Spade, Lucky Brand, and DKNY Jeans.
Basic fashion tips from "The Gunn":
(Fashion mavens already know these things, but I think it doesn't hurt to be reminded now and then)
- Motto:
Emphasizing fit, proportion, appropriateness for the occasion
- High importance of color complementing skin tone
- Layering to add interest, but also practical to accommodate weather and/or going from day to night.
- Rules were meant to be broken. Anyone can wear practically anything, as long as there's confidence and that must come from within.
My own babble...Fashion has an unfairly negative label as something totally superficial, but it seems short-sighted to consider only the monetary aspect when there isn't a single industry not corrupted by money.
Desire to reflect individual character and confidence, shaped by unique experiences and societal upbringing, are two aspects deeply rooted to the human psyche. Without the psyche, we're just shells of human beings.
- Skirt length - No matter the age, do not go more than an inch below the knee, otherwise it's frumpy and unflattering (small exception for sexy pencil skirts). Conversely, if you are age 27+ (roughly) steer clear of mini skirts, unless you are a celebrity or model or in another unreal profession. Although Pam Anderson should really stop....
-"The day of the $26,000 handbag is over" - I wouldn't agree 100%, but the economic downturn has re-defined our definition of luxury. Since money is tighter, quality and sustainability have become more important than brand value. We still want brand value, but the level of quality in diffusion brands is satisfying consumers. (I just hope that when the age of $26K bags comes back, I'll be financially healthy enough to hop on board LOL)
A couple pieces from from the S/S 2010 line, showcased at the Kate Spade event.
Tutti Frutti Eileen Dress $355
This dress actually has a lower neckline than most of the tops for the brand. I have to admit that the brand suits my age now. Most of the necklines are suitable for work, which I prefer for the office as well as weekend attire. (Firm believer that sexy doesn't have to be short, low-cut, or spandex).
Tim also talked about the importance of color in the Kate Spade line and it was clearly evident looking around the boutique. Their choice of colors are impeccable; sophisticated and true to the brand, but fun, modern, and charming. With saturated greens, yellows, and papaya, prim and proper prints and cuts, you can recognize Kate Spade from a mile away.
Jungle Jacquard Mona Jacket - $455
The style may be better for a woman in her 30s+, but I'm really drawn to the color and the print. Nothing jack-o-lantern about this shade of orange. Designers who carry gorgeous oranges (non-tacky or jarring) get a big plus in my book. I've always been a citrus lover.
That pretty much wraps up the Kate Spade/Tim Gunn event.
I must now give a shout out to Celine handbags.
Even though I'm on handbag diet, I plan on having one of these in the distant future. This is the first season that I've noticed the French fashion house, and I've heard the same from a few other girls. Maybe because Phoebe Philo has made it more youthful than the image back in the 90's.
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