What's the first designer item you ever bought?
I grew up with a fashion-obsessed mother and an older sister, so there was a lot of fashion in my house. The first thing I remember owning was a Pierre Cardin jumpsuit when I was 9 or 10; of course I didn't actually buy it, but I fell in love with it. When I was older and I first started working, I was obsessed with buying my first Chanel jacket. I saved up my hard-earned money, went to Barneys, and bought a little black Chanel jacket. It saw many, many job interviews and many, many events. I’m not fitting into it lately, but I still have it.
Where do you like to shop in New York?
I love the new Isabel Marant and Lanvin stores; also, Patricia von Musulin for jewelry. I shop a lot at CrewCuts for my son. I also like visiting those quirky stores like Evolution, with all the taxidermy and skeletons and interesting stones.
How would you describe your personal style?
I'm very classic and structural. I love clean lines and interesting, modern details. But I'm all about being streamlined — less is more.
What trends are you appreciating right now?
All this minimalism, like Celine and Calvin Klein. I'm so happy we're moving toward a cleaner look.
Any trends you're ready to see retired?
I have seen everything possible covered in studs and grommets. Also, what I call angry shoes: those platforms with the multiple buckles and studs. I think the polished girl is back.
Have you had to deal with many rehashed trends when judging Project Runway?
I'm always telling those designers, I need to know that you guys understand what's happening in fashion. I don't want to see them looking back, I want to see that they can look forward.
What's one item you're saving to buy?
The Burberry shearling coat is my must-have. I just hope I get to fit into it!
What's something you never leave the house without?
Since I'm pregnant at the moment, I can't leave home without Alexander Wang drapey tees. They're easy, cool, and they make me feel a little less obviously pregnant. I wear them with Current/Elliott cargo pants.
What sets the eighth season of Project Runway apart from the rest?
Well, the episodes are 90 minutes now, so you see more behind-the-scenes stuff, more of the design-room drama. It's been an exceptionally hot summer in New York and we have a very fragile cast — there's been a lot of fainting.
Any new books or projects in the works?
My son is due in December, so I have babies on the brain right now.
