Neiman Marcus power player and industry veteran Jodi Kahn has moved into a major new position after 14 years at the iconic multi-brand retailer. The Dallas-based vice president of beloved luxury fashion didn’t waste a second either. Since taking on the role, Khan has introduced twelve up-and-coming brands to the range and overseen key partnerships such as the runaway success of Balmain x Barbie. We caught up with her during the hectic NYFW, and before she embarks on her whistlestop tour of Europe with shows in London, Paris and Milan to hear how things are going…
What will you do in your new job?
It’s a unique and very exciting new role that combines my fashion insight with my strong business acumen. As fashion director and overseeing the fashion office, I will continue to work closely with all our buying offices and brand partners to deliver best-in-class collections and extraordinary experiences to Neiman Marcus customers. My goal is always to ensure that luxury fashion is at the heart of the Neiman Marcus business. During Fashion Month, I work with the team to identify the key trends and pieces of the season, as well as connect new brands and designers to introduce them to our discerning customers.
How do you prepare for fashion month?
I think about the mood of each city and how it inspires my look every day. Since I’m traveling for more than a month – the event starts early! I have a rolling rack that I start adding the pieces to about a month ago. From there I identified the key components that I would build around. Even though I spend a lot of time away from my home in Dallas, I enjoy figuring out what I’ll be wearing in each city once the schedule is announced! So excited to run around town with this dress from Proenza Schouler, the now ubiquitous pops of Barbie pink, some classic jeans, and my favorite mules from Christian Louboutin.
Jody Khan
What are your NYFW essentials?
A phone charger and AirPods are a must! I’m constantly taking photos, so a fully charged iPhone is a must. I use my AirPods to stay in business meetings and for work calls between shows.
what is your morning routine
Morning routine is essential to keep myself on the go! I always try to fit in my previous workout, whether it’s at the hotel gym or Barry’s Bootcamp. My workouts are just as important to my mental health as my physical, and give me the energy I need for long days of shows, events, and showroom appointments. Keeping track of all the important headlines in WWD, fashion business, And Vogue business… and of course, Daily Front Row!
What is a typical day like?
My day starts early in the morning and is non-stop until late at night – an exciting schedule of shows, press events, editor appointments, client meetings, showroom appointments and scouting potential product partners for Neiman Marcus. It’s a hectic schedule but all part of the fun!
What are you most excited about attending NYFW?
It’s such a privilege to be up close and personal at all the shows and showroom appointments I attend. I love being surrounded by the most talented people in the industry and my peers. Our version of a “back to school” reunion seems to be connecting with editors, stylists and designers. Identifying new and exciting talent is an important focus for our team at Fashion Week. We aim to be the leading fashion authority in luxury retail, so we prioritize innovation and want to ensure a diverse range of brands. It’s always interesting to see new collections and designers truly delight our discerning customers.
What is your absolute favorite part about being on the show?
The energy before the shows start is always electric and contagious. As soon as the lights go down, I’m excited (and a little nervous) to see the designer’s creativity and vision come to life!
Any other highlights this season?
My favorite moment at New York Fashion Week was hosting the Neiman Marcus Live Luxury Fall Campaign Cocktail Party with Jason Rembert and Erin Walsh. It was great to celebrate with the diverse, dynamic and creative fashion community and have a little fun at the same time!
Anne Hathaway and Jodie Kahn Live Your Luxury Event at Neiman Marcus (Credit)
What’s one thing you do whenever you’re in NYC?
I love finding new exercise studios to try when I’m in NYC. It’s also interesting to try new restaurants when I’m in town—I used to love Cucina Alba and my favorite is Polo Bar. It just makes me happy! If I have time, I like to explore different neighborhoods and am often inspired by the different street styles unique to New York.
What helps you balance everything?
Stay organized! I am fortunate to have an incredible team that I can use while on the go to run the day-to-day business. Communication with my team is essential to ensure nothing falls through the cracks.
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