Tonight, the Council of Fashion Designers of America (CFDA) honors Michael Kors, celebrating his remarkable contributions to the fashion industry over the past 40 years. As we mark this milestone, we revisit a heartfelt conversation between Kors and model Irina Shayk, who discusses the designer’s enduring love affair with New York City and his journey to success.
Kors grew up in Merrick, Long Island, making frequent trips to Manhattan as a teenager. His passion for fashion led him to attend the Fashion Institute of Technology, but he soon left to work at Lothar’s, a high-end boutique on 57th Street. There, he rubbed shoulders with iconic figures like Rudolf Nureyev and Cher, eventually designing for the store’s in-house line. A pivotal moment came when Dawn Mello, the legendary fashion director known for revitalizing Bergdorf Goodman, discovered Kors while he was dressing the shop windows. Intrigued by his unique style, she encouraged him to pursue his talent, leading to the launch of the Michael Kors Collection in 1981.
This year marks 40 years in business for Kors, and he celebrated the occasion with a spectacular runway show in Times Square. The event featured a star-studded lineup of models, including Shayk, who has called New York home for over a decade. For Shayk, New York represents opportunity and vibrancy—an inspiring backdrop for her career that began in a small village in Russia.
A Conversation Between Icons
In their conversation, Kors and Shayk reflected on their journeys and the magic of New York.
Michael Kors: “When I was a kid, driving into Manhattan, seeing the skyline felt like magic. New York was where you could reinvent yourself, follow your dreams, and meet diverse people from all over the world. That’s still what it represents to me.”
Irina Shayk: “New York is life. I lived in Los Angeles for a couple of years, but New York has this incredible energy. Here, even if you’re alone, you feel part of a community. People come from everywhere to chase their dreams, and that’s motivating.”
MK: “I was obsessed with fashion by 18. Working at Lothar’s, I interacted with so many famous faces. I learned that wealth doesn’t mean idleness; these people were dynamic and wanted to be comfortable yet glamorous.”
IS: “I come from a family of strong women. My grandmother was my icon—she was a resilient single mother. Her happiness was rooted in the people around her, not material possessions. That’s a beauty I aspire to.”
MK: “My mother is always in my mind as a muse. I grew up immersed in pop culture, surrounded by movie stars and designers. The stories I have—meeting legends like Barbra Streisand and President Obama—have taught me that regardless of success, we’re all just human, navigating life’s ups and downs.”
IS: “That’s so true.”
MK: “When we put together the 40th-anniversary show, it was all about strong, confident women. You embodied that perfectly, bringing humor and grace to the runway.”
IS: “You should see me in my apartment—definitely not glamorous!”
MK: “When we called you for a second fitting, I think you were enjoying a margarita at dinner.”
IS: “I was! I finally got a reservation at 4 Charles. When they called, I thought, ‘I can definitely try on the outfit after a few margaritas!’”
MK: “I love that you were there. It’s such a hard place to get into. We’ll have to go together sometime!”
Celebrating the Magic of New York
Kors’s journey reflects the essence of New York City—a place of endless possibilities and reinvention. His connection to the city remains a driving force behind his creativity and success. As he continues to inspire with his designs, tonight’s CFDA celebration is a testament to his impact on the fashion world and the vibrant spirit of New York that fuels his vision.
