Profile: Tory Burch

It is hard to imagine that Tory Burch needs an introduction, or that I could possibly do one justice. I have been enamored with Tory’s natural beauty and style ever since she graced the cover of Town & Country in December 2000. Every year I still pull out my well-worn copy when I am in need of Christmas inspiration.

After working in public relations for Ralph Lauren and Vera Wang, Tory launched her first store in New York in 2004. Even after learning of her clothing line, I would still reference her (in my mind) as “the woman from Town & Country.”

Much has changed since 2004; Tory now operates 20 boutiques and sells to 450 stores, such as Saks Fifth Avenue and Neiman Marcus. And, while the brand and name have grown, there is a constant that remains the same—her impeccable sense of style. Not just fashion, but interiors, travel and entertaining. When you read the Tory Burch blog you quickly realized that Tory Burch (the person) encompasses the whole lifestyle.

Like so many others, I was delighted when Tina Barney and Tory recently collaborated on the Tory Burch spring ad campaign. From the moment that I saw the photos, I felt it was a match made in heaven. Barney, best known for remarkable documentation of lifestyles and relationships, captured the Tory Burch lifestyle beautifully. But perhaps, it is Tory’s and Tina’s refusal to give into predictably, without sacrificing creativity, that I most admire.

What one fact about you would people be most surprised to learn?
Most people don’t know that I’m superstitious. I’m not obsessive about it but, for instance, I carry a red ribbon for good luck in my bag whenever I travel. It’s a tradition my great grandmother started.

Who are your style icons?
My parents. So much of what I do stems from their influence when I was a young girl. I have vivid memories of watching them get ready for evenings out. My mother always styled her gowns so personally and beautifully. My father was incredibly dapper. He used to line his dinner jackets with Hermès scarves.

Who would you most like to collaborate with on a project?
I would love to do something philanthropic with Bill and Melinda Gates and their foundation. They has given so much back to the community and have set up incredible organizations that are really making a difference at the community level, where change begins.

What is the one thing in life you cannot live without?
My family—everything else is superfluous.

What is your idea of earthly happiness?
I’m as happy as my children are happy. If they’re happy and doing well, that’s what matters most to me.

Past or present, who has most influenced your direction in life?
My parents. They set a great example for my brothers and me in every aspect of life, from the importance of education to being the best role model for my children to how we treat others.

Who would you most like to meet and how would you spend the day?
I would love to spend a day with Gabriel Garcia Marquez. I have read all of his books and short stories—several times each.


What inspires your creativity?
I find inspiration in so many things—art, music, travel, photographs of my parents in the 60s and 70s traveling in Morocco and Greece. My design team and I are always pushing each other to do more and explore new things, which is always a great motivation.

How would you describe your personal style?
My roots are in classic American sportswear but with an eclectic, slightly tomboy edge.

What is your most prized possession?
A sunflower pendant my father gave my grandmother. It’s the inspiration for the Tory Burch Foundation logo, and something that holds great meaning for me.

You Are Invited
I will be at the Houston Tory Burch Boutique in Galleria I on Monday, April 26. Please come by to say hello and have a glass of bubbly if you can! It is from 6:00pm - 8:00pm and everyone will receive 20% off all full price merchandise. You can RSVP in the comment section of the blog or send an email to (toryburchevents@toryburch.com). Happy Shopping!

Profile by Ronda Carman