Natalie Long takes a peek inside the world of Reed Krakoff - the man behind a New York classic.
Coach creative director Reed Krakoff is credited with taking the ubiquitous New York brand and turning into a colourful must-have for Manhattanites. He's now the American Karl Lagerfeld — taking all the photography for the company's campaigns, including one featuring 87-year-old New York style maven Iris Apfel that's been the talk of Fashion Week.
The latest collection, Madison, is an op-art inspired take on the label's classic C print.
It's available from next month at the Coach store in Emirates Towers Boulevard. From Coach HQ in New York's utilitarian Garment District, Reed took time to tell tabloid! about life, love and handbags.
The Madison collection print is inspired by op art. What is your favourite op art work and artist?
The Op-Art pattern is an evolution of the classic Coach signature C and is rooted in my love for such artists as Kenneth Noland, Mark Rothko and Morris Louis.
Do you own any art?
I own mostly modern art including sculptures and paintings. I also like to collect antique and contemporary furniture pieces. My most recent acquisitions were pieces by husband and wife French duo the Lalannes, Ron Arad, and Mattia Bonetti.
Which piece of art do you wish you owned?
I am currently lusting over some additional furniture pieces by Mattia Bonetti for my new home.
Who are your favourite designers?
I started my career working with some of the best American designers in the industry, including Tommy Hilfiger, Ralph Lauren, and Narciso Rodriguez. I still consider them some of my favourite fashion designers today.
You looked back into the Coach archives for the Legacy collection. Which is your favourite fashion era?
Our archive from the 1960s is particularly interesting to me as it represents a time in history that solidified many our of most recognisable design elements like the duffle sac and the turnlock. That era was so chic and effortless.
Coach bags are named after women. Are they inspired by real people?
They usually are not inspired by real people and instead I select a name that I think characterise the style and feeling of a handbag. But recently I named an especially exquisite bag after my wife Delphine. For me she is a true fashion icon, both for her confidence and her chic, effortless style. She consistently inspires me.
Which bag do you carry?
Currently I am carrying an alligator tote in a deep indigo colour.
Who makes your favourite suit?
Custom-made Ralph Lauren Purple Label.
Best place to eat?
I love Sant-Ambroeus in the West Village. It has great traditional Italian cuisine without being stuffy or too fussy.
Your biggest obsession?
Photography. After considerable study and personal time spent on this craft, I recently took over the task of shooting our advertising campaigns.
Your greatest extravagance?
Definitely art.
Your favourite view in New York?
I love the view from the Landmark Hotel; it's the perfect New York view overlooking Central Park and Columbus Circle.
Which trend do you like most right now?
I love the return to smaller, more detailed bags. The introduction of pretty silhouettes and feminine accents is refreshing.
Which trend would you like to get rid of?
The need for people to wear trends even if they don't suit them.
Best thing about working in fashion?
The creative outlet that it offers me. Fashion is flexible so I'm able to infuse some whimsy and fun into what I do.
Your favourite piece on sale at the Bleecker Street Legacy store? [The store features one-of-a-kind items inspired by the Coach archives].
I am currently loving our Frances clutches. They are influenced by our briefcase silhouette and are extremely charming with their bright pops of colour.
Which celebrity would you love to see carrying a Coach bag?
I don't follow that stuff too closely but we certainly do love seeing a young starlet carry a Coach bag, whether they are on the red carpet or just out and about. Having these influencers show their love of Coach is great and often helps guide our customer in developing her style.
