CEO, Council of Fashion Designers of America (CFDA)
Below: Steven Klob
For someone who was never that into fashion, preferring acting and charity work over embroidery and epaulettes, Steven Kolb, CEO of the CFDA, America’s foremost fashion institution, may look like he’s in the wrong place at first glance. But it is perhaps this distance from the fashion industry that has enabled Kolb to think out of the box and steer the CFDA into new directional heights, notably his leadership role in cultivating emerging American fashion talent through programmes like the CFDA/Vogue Fashion Fund and the CFDA (FASHION INCUBATOR). Under Kolb’s guidance, the annual CFDA Fashion Awards has become the preeminent spotlight on American fashion. Since being appointed CEO in 2011, Kolb’s continues to work closely with charity organisations, spearheading philanthropic initiatives such as Fashion Targets Breast Cancer, which raises public awareness and funds for breast cancer research globally.
What is the most rewarding aspect of your job?
It is rewarding to be surrounded by creative people.
Why do you think it’s so important to nurture and promote emerging and new generation designers?
The American fashion industry is a $350 billion industry and its success is critical to the overall American economy. These young businesses are creating jobs and helping people live with security.
What do you think are some of the challenges young designers commonly face in the industry today and how do you think they can overcome these obstacles?
Fashion is an overpopulated industry with so many brands trying to make it. To succeed you need to break out. Having a clear point of view and be original and creativity can help a designer breakout form the crowd.
What do you look for when sifting out designers with potential?
Again a point of view is important.
What is your impression of the Asian designers you’ve seen so far? Are there any differences you’ve noticed between Asian and Western designers?
I don’t distinguish between Western and Asian designers. I only see talent no matter where a designer is from.
What do you hope to accomplish/make a difference in Singapore’s fashion design scene (through Asian Fashion Summit and Audi Fashion Festival)?
I am interested in being introduced to new talent and exploring opportunities for American designers.
What advice would you give to any young designer?
Be patient and work for someone before you go out on your own.
Did you ever think you would become the C.E.O. of the C.F.D.A.? As a young adult, what was your dream profession?
No, I wanted to be an actor. I had no interest in fashion.
With your current position in the C.F.D.A. which requires you to be in the media spotlight quite often, is there always a fair bit of pressure on your end to constantly look stylish and “the part”?
I dress in clothes that I feel comfortable in and they are a reflection of my personality.
Do you have certain style rules you live by that you can share with our readers?
Dress for the occasion and when in doubt it’s always better to be overdressed then underdressed.
What’s one fashion faux-pas you made that you wish you hadn’t?
None that I can think of.
Growing up who were some of your style icons/men whom you thought had a great sense of style?
Steven McQueen, James Dean, Mick Jagger.
Who are some of the men you think have great style today?
Jonny Depp, George Clooney, Frank Ocean
Who are some of the menswear designers that never fail to impress you? Any emerging menswear brands we should keep a lookout for?
Tim Coppens, Public School, Rag & Bone, Michael Bastian. Lookout for Isaoroa!
What’s inspiring you at the moment?
Spring flowers.
Tell us how you’ll be spending your summer this year? Where’s your all-time favourite summer holiday destination?
I will be spending time at my house in Pennsylvania. I really like Puerto Rico. It’s easy to get to and it has beautiful beaches.
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