Carolina Herrera was at Bal Harbour Shops to celebrate the grand opening of her CH store which offers men, women and children’s ready-to-wear clothing accessories.
Style savants turned up to scope out the new shop and indulge in some
fashion. The Venezuelan born icon is one of the most accomplished designers in the world, whether she is creating gowns for Bella or winning lifetime achievement awards from the CFDA, so we relished the opportunity to sit down with Mrs.Herrera at her new Bal Harbour shops — one of only six flagships in the world. We asked her about fashion bloggers and her beauty regimen, and why she is one of the last designers without a lower-end diffusion line.
As far as design, what are you currently working on right now?
"I’m working on the bridal collection. I love to design for brides because it’s full of fantasy, dreams and hopes. Everyone is just happy. This year, I’m taking many ideas from
the Fall 2012 collection and translating for the Bridal."
Before you get started on a collection, do you have any rituals that you rely on to get
your creativity flowing?
"There is no ritual. Everyday is different for me. The fun part of fashion is that you can be
doing something different even when you are designing a collection. Each dress has its’
own individuality."
A lot of designers are giving credit to social media and fashion bloggers for helping their
brands reach greater sales versus traditional journalism. Is this true for the Carolina Herrera
brand?
"I think it’s very fashionable to be a blogger. I’ve seen one who was 13-years-old sitting
front row. I’m just fascinated and amused at how many followers they have. I love to
meet them and see how they view the shows."
You always look stunning and elegant. What beauty regimens do you rely on?
"I think you have to be happy with yourself. When I think about it, everything comes
in order. First, my family. Everyone is healthy and happy. I have 12 grandchildren, two
great grandchildren, a husband and my dogs. It helps. I also don’t drink and believe
you should eat in moderation. Just yesterday, I was doing a segment for CNN and they
asked me if I eat salad all day to stay thin and I said, do you think I am a rabbit? I
find it boring these women who are always talking about being on a diet."
With so many labels like Missoni and Jason Wu launching a budget friendly capsule
collection. Is there a possibility in the future of you doing something similar?
"Of course, why not? I find it fabulous. I’m very curious to know what’s new and what’s
good for the business."
Next goal?
The goal is to continue opening CH stores around the world. So far it’s
working and I’m knocking on wood that it continues to stay this way."