January 25, 2011
kate spade's deborah lloyd
Some companies are exciting to watch. To see how they will art direct their next ad campaign. How they will use fonts and graphics. And, of course, what collections and products they will put together. Kate Spade has always been one of these companies, since it launched in 1993 at the hands of Kate Brosnahan (former accessories editor on Mademoiselle magazine) and her husband Andy Spade. In 2007 Deborah Lloyd took over the reigns as creative director and co-president after stints at Banana Republic and Burberry. As her latest ad campaign shows, pictured top, using actress Bryce Dallas Howard, she very much keeps the spirit of the brand alive.
Which five words best describe you? I have a split personality.
How did you get your career start and what path have you taken since? I impressed my examiners at The Royal College of Art and they offered me my first job. I haven’t looked back since. I always followed my heart and what felt right rather than having a master plan. It worked for me. I now have my dream job.
What’s the best lesson you’ve learnt along the way? Do what you love!
What’s your proudest career achievement? I’m so driven that I would like to think it's something in my future. I would like to think there is a lot more to come... this is only the beginning!
What’s been your best decision? To come to kate spade new york. The best ever! I love this brand.
Who inspires you? My crazy talented team. They keep me on my toes and give me a reason to come to work every day.
What are you passionate about? My life! I love many things – my husband Simon; my dog Harry Winston Churchill; my home and Christmas decorations; my art – photographs by Peter Beard, illustrations by Gruau, paintings by Harland Miller; fast cars – Aston martins and e-type jaguars; James Bond movies; real diamonds worn with chunky costume jewellery; shocking pink roses; macarons from Laduree; a good pinot noir and a champagne cocktail.
Which person, living or dead, would you most like to meet? I would have loved to have met Coco Chanel, she changed the way women dress and had such a singular modern vision.
What dream do you still want to fulfill? I would love to curate a book about all the things I love before I retire to a chateau in the South of France surrounded by vineyards and lavender fields.
What are you reading? The Glass Blower of Murano: I love a historical drama.
images courtesy of kate spade