From upper-echelon socialites to Renée Zellweger to everyday women, Carolina Herrera has a timeless fit for everyone. The world-renowned fashion designer will be gracing Miami with her refined and elegant style Thursday as she hosts the opening of her lifestyle sportswear collection CH Carolina Herrera boutique in Bal Harbour Shops.
The Bal Harbour store, the label’s first unveiling in 2012, joins 14 others in the United States. We rub elbows with the Venezuelan designer, an icon since founding the label in 1981, about her penchant for crisp white shirts, stone crabs and more.
Q. Describe the CH brand for those not-in-the-know:
A: CH is the continuation of Carolina Herrera New York with complete collections of men’s, women’s and children’s. There’s now something for everyone. But it’s more than just clothes — it’s a lifestyle.
Q. You are just coming up for air from New York Fashion Week. Looking back, what stood out most this particular season?
Every collection is different and unique. My inspiration for this one was the glamorous woman of today. There was a concentration on deep color and rich texture. Jackets were cropped with fitted pencil skirts, which give the silhouette accentuation on natural curvature and movement. The colors were a mixture of deep navy, indigo, blues, purples and an accent of hot pink.
Q. We can always rely on you to reinvent the basic white blouse. What is another fashion staple in your book?
I think every woman should own a dress, a pencil skirt and a gown. Most importantly, you should wear what you know is right for your age and your figure. And always keep in mind the occasion that you are dressing for.
Q. Walk us through your closet. Which designers are omnipresent?
Carolina Herrera, I love her designs.
Q. Funny, Mrs. Herrera! When in Miami, where do you like to shop?
I really enjoy coming to the Bal Harbour Shops. You can find everything you’re looking for there and the fact that you get to be outside while shopping is an added bonus.
Q. Ultimately, what is it about Miami that inspires you?
I really enjoy how colorful the city is with its Art Deco architecture and beautiful beaches. The people in Miami are so alive.
Q. Dish … tell us a secret about you that few people know.
If I told you it would never be a secret again!
Q. When in the Magic City, where must you dine?
Joe’s Stone Crab — I love it there!