Tory Burch

Tory Burch Boutique

Tory Burch Up Close

Tory Burch is the darling of New York society and has quickly emerged on the fashion scene as a leading design force after launching her namesake line. With a store launching in Chicago in mid-October, we just had to get up close with Burch to learn more about her as the designer behind the big, bold brand.

FACTIO MAGAZINE: Who is the “Tory Burch” woman?
TORY BURCH: The Tory Burch woman is
not afraid of bold color and prints. She has a unique sense of style and pays attention to trends but is not driven by them. She is someone who appreciates timeless, luxurious classics with a modern sensibility.

FM: Tell us about your fall collection.
TB: In our fall collection, we brought an eclectic American sensibility to the effortlessly chic style of French women of the sixties. Prints are always a focal point for us and range from bold florals to soft geometrics this season. The color palette is one of classic neutrals offset by vivid shots of
lipstick red, mustard, aubergine and teal. A-line dresses are
essential and come in everything from classic wool to silk covered in sequins. We also did an amazing plaid coat that I love.

FM: What is it about orange that attracts you?
TB: I love the fact that it’s bold, bright and unexpected. As a child, I wanted an orange bedroom and my mother would never let me have one. I have certainly made up for that in our stores!

FM: Tell us a bit about your first job in fashion. Did you always dream of becoming a designer yourself?
TB: My first job in fashion was working for the designer Zoran as an assistant. I did everything from sales to public relations to getting coffee. It would have been impossible not to have developed a passion for fashion and style growing up with my mother and father. They both have always had an amazing and innate sense of style. I did not always dream of being a designer, but I think the fashion industry was a natural fit for me. After over 15 years working in marketing and pr for great designers like Ralph Lauren, Vera Wang and Narciso Rodriguez, it became clear that my passion was in the design process and I knew it was something I wanted to do.

FM: What are some of the must-haves that every woman should have in her closet?
TB: Every woman should have a few great pairs of pants---a perfect jean, a pair of wide legged cream pants for evening and a pair of wool flannel pants for day. A great cardigan and tank tops for layering are essential. A few pieces of bold unique
jewelry are also a must. A vintage cuff or necklace can take a simple outfit and give it a more unique look.

FM: What are your tips for balancing career and family?
TB: It is difficult to balance everything, of course, but above all else, my job as a mother always comes first.

FM: What are people surprised to know about you?
TB: That I played tennis in college and am a bit of a tomboy. I grew up on a farm with three brothers so most of my childhood was spent running around and
playing outside.

FM: What is your most memorable career moment to date?
TB: The day we opened our first store in New York’s Nolita in February 2004.

FM: Where are your favorite vacation spots?
TB: I love to go out to our house on the beach on Long Island. It is so peaceful out there and is a place where I can spend quiet time with my boys away from the city. In the summer we love to go clamming and
crabbing and camp out on the beach
in tents.

FM: How do you decide what to wear for events?
TB: It really depends on my mood that night, so I usually decide at the last minute.

FM: In Chicago, where do you shop, eat and sleep?
TB: I love the Peninsula Hotel; that is usually where I stay when I’m in Chicago. I also love to visit The Art Institute and walk along Michigan Avenue. Chinois is amazing, and I love Frontera for Mexican food.

FM: Where do you see the Tory Burch brand headed?
TB: I see us growing slowly and strategically, expanding as the demand grows, and continuing to focus on the needs of our customers. For now we are focused on building our ready-to-wear and accessories businesses, but eventually I would love to expand into home and perhaps launch a fragrance.
-Melissa Maynard

Tory Burch, Chicago
66 East Walton St., Chicago, IL 60611
312.280.0010