‘A Reflection of People’

You were one of the first major designers to make affordable clothing. Why are big names like Karl Lagerfeld and Stella McCartney now designing for H&M?

There’s no question mass consumers have recognized the value of design, and it’s a way for designers to make a little money. But as far as I’m concerned, I’m not doing this anymore. My distribution now is very narrow. I only sell to a very small distribution in the very best stores around the world.

What city do you think is currently the world's fashion capital?

Oh, I don’t know. I think New York is extremely important. I think Paris, of course. I think London. In terms of markets, you have very strong new markets: like Dubai, where they do huge business.

Any thoughts on “getting older?”

I am getting older. The good thing, as far as my work is concerned, is that the older I get, the younger my brand gets. My customers are getting younger and younger as I get older and older. The only two disadvantages are that you have less time ahead of you and that physically you don’t look that good. But everything else is better.