Q&A Archive – August 09, 2007
Hi Michael. First, I think you are great and can't wait to see you on another season of Project Runway! Second, what are the best styles of tops for a smaller chested woman? Thanks!
Well, I think that if a woman has a smaller chest, she is able to wear tops that are more bare like halters and key-hole tops. Since you do not have to worry about being too busty or mimicking Pamela Anderson, you can "dare to be bare" as Diana Vreeland used to say.
Hi Michael, I would like your advice. I want a style update, what do you suggest? I am 4'10" and around 100 lbs. Unfortunately, I have Rheumatoid Arthritis and cannot wear high heels! Any help from you would be greatly appreciated.
Well a ballet flat always worked for Audrey Hepburn and it can work for you. They have been "the" shoe for a couple of season and it does not seem to be going away. It is key to watch the proportion of your hem on your pants -- ballet flats work best with a cropped pant or jean.
Dear Michael, I'm a 25 year-old girl dentist, former model and I love fashion! Unfortunately, I look like I'm about 18 and most people think that I'm in high school or that I am the hygienist or assistant. What kind of outfits do you think I should wear to work so that I look official to my patients but not matronly or boring?
First, do not rush the aging process, trust me! You will grow into your looks and feel more comfortable. The key to looking professional is to remain polished without looking like you are trying too hard. Go for a tailored trouser and simple knit -- v-neck or crew neck shells paired with a cardigan. Watch the scoop neck as you do not want to flash your patients. Wrap jersey dresses with a good shoe is always a chic look for a professional woman from 25 to 65. With your make-up be careful not to overdo it. Keep the colors and application simple for the office -- focus on the eye or the lip but not both.
Dear Michael: What was your first job in fashion?
When I was 19, I worked at what was the coolest store in New York at that time -- Lothar's. Everyone from Studio 54 shopped there -- Liza, Goldie Hawn, Rudolph Nureyev, and Cher. I was a sales person, I did the window displays and merchandised the store. Then eventually I began designing their signature collection which led me to my own collection.
