The Inter-Views of Fashion: Tom Ford

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Tom Ford talks inspiration, fashion, and plans for the future.

We love your label for its unapologetic formality. Where does your passion for formal dressing come from?
Formality feels right to me right now. At a time when fashion is getting increasingly more casual and broken down, I think that ‘dressing up’ shows that the wearer has self-respect and respect for the people around him. Maybe it is also a reaction against all the trends out there in menswear at the moment. Formal is just how I want to dress right now.

What inspires you?
I am inspired by everything around me.

Do you see a progression in your work as a designer?
The progression of my work as a designer very much follows the progression of myself as a person. As I grow older, I see myself and the world differently. I have different role models and different values. Authenticity has become increasingly important to me in my life and in my work

Is retail design more significant now than it was 10 years ago?
Retail design has always been significant in helping to define a brand and has become more important than ever as the entire luxury industry has become more homogenized. More than ever, the brand experience is, in part, determined by the retail space.

You’ve turned your hand to fashion, accessories, beauty and fragrance. Have you any plans to branch into home ware?
For the moment, we are focusing on the existing categories and have no plans to branch into homeware.

What single thing would improve the quality of your life?
More time.

Describe Tom Ford in three words.
Loyal, shy, perfectionist.