View from the Front Row with Ken Downing

Ken Downing- Fashion Director of Neiman Marcus and Bag Snob Tina

I have been running into friends from Dallas all week; including the fabulous Ken Downing, Fashion Director of Neiman Marcus. Ken has been heralded the most influential man in fashion not to mention the hardest working. I saw him at every show I attended, fiercely focused on each look floating down the runway and taking notes on the pieces that will end up on the glossy racks at Neiman Marcus stores by next February. So what does the man who decides what women will wear each season think of the latest bags? I caught up with Ken in midst of his busy week for a quick Q & A.

Bag Snob: I have not seen you in so long, how are you? It seems you are never in Dallas anymore!

Ken Downing: I know, it’s been a whirlwind. I go home for a day and then it’s off to the next trip.

Bag Snob: What bags have you seen at Fashion Week, tell me which ones you’re most excited about for Spring.

Ken Downing: The oversized gold foiled bag from Michael Kors is hot. I also liked the clutches he showed.

Bag Snob: I spoke to Zac Posen and he said to expect different bags from him next Spring. Have you seen them yet?

Ken Downing: Oh yes, I was just at Zac’s showroom the other day. Great collection, streamlined and very sleek. He’s lightened up the look, took the hardware off and has a more modern edge.

Bag Snob: What bag trend do you predict will continue from Fall to Spring?

Ken Downing: Exotics will continue strong. And anything ombre, even better is exotic skins in ombre. The varying hues really show off the texture of skins.

Bag Snob: What bag should we be buying right now for Fall?

Ken Downing: The bag you’re using is perfect. Gray exotic is the look of the season. (Bag Snob note: I was carrying the Bottega Veneta Anaconda Lucida bag)

With that and a kiss adieu, Ken was off to the next show. I saw him again at Oscar de la Renta later that day across town, like I said, the man never stops!