Haute Interview: Holiday Time with Kathy Hilton

It is a great delight to interview Kathy Hilton and feature her now before Christmas as her HOLIDAY collection is divine and her Spring 2013 Collection even more to talk about. She just recently opened so warmly her beautiful home to show her collection to those lucky enough to participate in an evening of delicious food, company and fashion!!

Kathy is inspired by her mother, and my mother is my greatest inspiration too! As we celebrate Christmas and think about gratitude, it is great to have had a mother who taught me to love and to be kind, but also taught me to appreciate beauty and all things divine. So as we see in Kathy’s collection, it is elegant and refined—a fit for any holiday party whether with your family, friends and/or business time. Playful and precious, colorful and clean, and beautiful and brilliant best describe Kathy’s latest collections.

Click here to view the collection.

Has being born and raised in New York influenced your style, even though you have lived in Los Angeles for most of your life?
I have a special place in my heart for New York City. I spent my early childhood there before moving to Los Angeles. We lived in the city for 14 years and we spent a good deal of time in the Hamptons each summer. Plus, New York is so convenient to get to Paris. It is the fashion capital of the United States so it has absolutely influenced my style.

I noticed you had a leather outfit during a launch party for your Holiday collection recently at your home? Why?
The majority of pieces in my clothing line are constructed with soft and feminine fabrics and trim. I like the idea of doing something a little different and unexpected, so I designed the black pleather lace outfit just before the party. Pleather is artificial leather and moves more freely than real leather.

What is your favorite piece in the collection?
I have so many it’s hard to say.

Who inspires you?
My mother is my greatest inspiration. She was an amazing mother and was very glamorous. My other inspirations include Audrey Hepburn and Grace Kelly.

Is there one designer who inspires you?
I can’t single out just one as there are so many whom I admire, but to name a few—Valentino, Oscar de la Renta and many of the up-and-coming designers in Europe.

What inspires your Holiday collection?
Ornaments, the ballet, opera, and classics films with a contemporary twist. Overall, my line caters to a diverse range of ages and has styles to suit every woman. I am proud my styles are timeless and can be worn season after season without breaking the bank. I am also proud that my clothes can be found at Saks Fifth Avenue, Nordstrom and Neiman Marcus.

What is your favorite part of the Holiday Season?
We love the holidays and decorate our home for every season. My favorite part of any holiday is spending time with my wonderful family and friends.

What is your favorite Holiday music?
I love listening to the oldies like Johnny Mathis, Bing Crosby and Dean Martin – songs I grew up hearing and still know every word.