We caught up with Fashion Visionary and Philanthropist, Tommy Hilfiger, to talk fashion (of course), the Middle East, and his favourite Gigi Hadid look from the Tommy Hilfiger FW16 NY Show.
What word do you feel best embodied the Tommy Hilfiger FW16 NY Show?
Experiential.
What was the inspiration behind the AW16 collection?
This season we’ve taken our classic heritage and iconic pop culture inspirations – Americana, nautical, athletics, rock ‘n’ roll – and given it all a modern-day refresh. It’s nautical meets street, and inspired by our womenswear ambassador Gigi Hadid whose style reflects the spirit of our brand: irreverent, optimistic and effortlessly cool.
What parts of your personal life, past and present, are most inspiring?
My family drives me, there’s nothing in the world that means more to me. My wife and our seven children are absolutely my biggest joy and my most constant source of inspiration.
What is it about fashion that excites you the most?
Fashion is dynamic and fast-paced, it’s always changing and that’s what I love about it. It’s exciting to bring innovation and a fresh perspective to my collections each season.
How has your style evolved over the last few years, and where do you see the Tommy Hilfiger brand headed in the next five years?
Writing my memoir “American Dreamer” has been an incredible process. I’ve looked back on the moments that have defined my career and my personal life and reflected on where we need to go in the next 30 years. I’ve always remained driven by a vision to reinvent East Coast heritage with a West Coast edge that’s relaxed and cool, giving a fresh twist to the classics has become our tradition and our trademark.
Who is the “Tommy Hilfiger’’ woman?
Our typical “Tommy girl” isn’t afraid to have fun with style and try new things and Gigi Hadid is the perfect example. Her personality is always bright and optimistic, and her style is confident, effortless and cool.
What is your outlook on the Middle Eastern market? Where do you see the Tommy Hilfiger brand headed within the next 10 years in the region?
In April I visited Dubai to kick-off our 10th anniversary celebrations in the Middle East, and we’re excited about how our brand has been received and embraced in the region. The Middle East’s global reputation for dynamic shopping experiences makes it a strong platform to continue to elevate and expand our business. We look forward to the year ahead in particular, and the exciting celebrations we’ll host to commemorate our anniversary in the region.
The Tommy Hilfiger Ramadan 2016 capsule collection was very well received in Saudi Arabia and the UAE. Do you have plans to dabble in more Muslim wear?
Our consumers have always been at the heart of my brand, and we continue to explore new ways to connect with them globally through collections that engage and inspire.
If Gigi Hadid were to call you for some fashion styling tips, what two items would you most recommend for her from the AW16 collection?
Gigi and I are very proud of the “TommyXGigi” collection. She looked amazing while she opened our fashion show in the leather biker pants and military jacket.
Which celebrities have you enjoyed working with the most? Who do you look forward to partnering with in the future?
Our brand has a long history of collaborating with inspiring talent, from artists, musicians and social influencers to emerging designers and athletes. I love partnering with influencers who bring a fresh twist to the brand and our products.
