Robin Givhan Quotes

Over the course of the years, I've learned [that] fashion is a fascinating business about selling magic. It is done on the backs of our optimism and our insecurity. It is as much psychology as commerce. But I've also learned that every day we make split second decisions about people based on their attire and those decisions can have powerful implications - see the story of Trayvon Martin and his hoodie. It's important for us to understand how fashion works and how we connect to it.

There is nothing "useful" about fashion, which is why it is fashion and not clothes. My personal opinion about the runway is that it should be used to whisk the audience off to a fantasy world that is possible, but not probably. It should delight and inspire.

I am a thorn in the side of designers.

Sometimes those who bloom too early fade fast. Michael Kors struggled for years - and endured bankruptcy - before he became all rich and famous and fabulous.

I hate yoga pants anywhere but the gym.

Clothes are incredibly symbolic.

Because what the fashion industry loves, it woos - then swallows whole.

I like some of the oversized silhouettes. It's a nice change and exudes ease. Also like the upmarket street wear. It's fashion that reaches people where they live but looks polished.

How much of fashion is fueled by insecurity - for better or worse?

I do think younger women have to figure out how to combine their own sense of style with what is appropriate and authoritative. Some young women think there's no reason why they can't wear flip flops in the office in the summer because their accomplishments should exempt them from a stodgy dress code.

Avoiding the appearance of queenly behavior is politically wise. But it does American culture no favors if a first lady tries so hard to be average that she winds up looking common.

I'm not a vintage/thrift shop girl. I don't have the patience.

I get enough fashion news in my professional life. I like interiors during my downtime.