My Luxuries: Tibi's Amy Smilovic on sharp suits, 'old Céline' and why she settled down in New York City
The American founder and designer of Tibi discusses the luxuries she would rather not be without.
How would you describe your style?
Laid back, but still refined; clean and modern with a touch of femininity.
Who is your favourite designer?
Donna Karan; she was the first true designer I bought when I earned enough to a buy a designer suit. It was navy blue and made me feel like I could do anything.
I put the suit on each time I had a big meeting when I worked at American Express and needed to feel strong and credible. I also admire how she seems to walk to her own beat.
Which shoe brand do you swear by?
Old Céline; I could open a shop with my Celine shoes!
Finishing touches?
A rubber band to slick my hair back – it always takes any outfit down a notch, which to me is a good thing.
Artist whose work you admire?
Julian Schnabel, hands down. I love that he constantly reconsiders his work and does so without listening to gallery demands. He isn’t afraid of becoming irrelevant or not selling as long as he is doing what he believes in creatively.
Your favourite piece of jewellery?
Delicate but tough pieces from Pristine by Lauren Rubinski - she is so talented.
What's on your wrist?
A Franck Muller watch that I bought for my 40th birthday. It’s a men’s watch and I love it.
Dream drive?
A Tesla, I just think they are beautiful.
Ultimate luxury escape?
A week at the Cloister Hotel in Sea Island, Georgia. You can’t beat the purple sunset over the marsh, the hanging moss, and the smell of the azaleas.
Favourite restaurant?
Lupa in New York; it’s a tiny Italian restaurant that is so cosy and has the best home-cooked Italian anywhere around.
Who would make your last supper?
That would have to be the falafel platter from L’as du Falafel in the Marais, Paris. Whoever is behind this falafel restaurant is the one I want with me. It’s one of my favorite places on earth.
Are there any of life’s ‘luxuries’ that are necessities for you?
Time and being with family are my luxuries. I grew up with a father who was an artist and mother who was a teacher; my parents are still married 51 years later. I really cherish the time I have with my family.
I’ve chosen to live in the New York City area, work in fashion, travel a ton. This reality couldn’t be further from how I grew up, on an island. But the best luxury is when you know yourself, you have people around you whom you love - and that you’re dressed well!
What single thing would make your existence more luxurious?
A live-in masseuse. That would be amazing.
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