Of Kors you can: Q & A with Mr Jet-set himself

No leopard-print bikini for Michael Kors.

Michael Kors is renowned for his chic, luxurious American sportswear.

He started designing a collection for New York boutique Lothar's at 19 and launched the Michael Kors label in 1981, doing his take on sportswear with jet-set attitude that made him famous. The accessories line followed in 2001 with bags, shoes, belts and eyewear, and a full-scale menswear collection a year later.

Celebrities love the gear. Jennifer Lopez, Charlize Theron, Catherine Zeta-Jones, Sharon Stone, Barbra Streisand, Kate Bosworth, Rene Russo, Liv Tyler, Angelica Huston and Gwyneth Paltrow all have Michael Kors pieces in their wardrobes.

But it's the reality TV show Project Runway that really made him a household name in New Zealand. He's one of the judges and doesn't hold back on what he really thinks about some of the contestants' designs.

Naturally, there's also fragrance. For his latest - Island Michael Kors - he wanted it smell like "a vacation in a bottle". It's an infusion of humid florals with some exotic fruits, sparkling tropical water with subtle notes of driftwood and white bark.

What's the best thing about your job?

It is always unexpected. There is always something new around the corner, and I am always trying to figure out what is new and next.

Any downside?

Having my calendar consistently booked. My dream is to one day have a calendar with a blank couple of weeks. What inspires you when you're designing a collection? Everything from the people around me, family, friends, colleagues to pop culture - theatre and movies.

What's it like being a part of Project Runway?

It is an opportunity to be a mentor to these young talented designers.

Do you have an idea from the outset as to who should win?

No. Clearly I can tell who is the real deal in the beginning, but there are always a few surprises.

What advice would you give a budding fashion designer?

Stay curious, keep your eyes and ears open for what is new.

Michael Kors aside, what's your favourite store and why?

Bergdorf Goodman. It is the quintessential New York department store experience - chic and luxurious.

What's always in your wardrobe?

Black T-shirts, white jeans, black cashmere turtlenecks, a navy pea coat and always silver aviator sunglasses.

Is there anything you'd never wear?

A leopard-print bikini.

Who would you most like to dress?

Jackie Kennedy. No matter which era - whether it was the young Jacqueline Bouvier, Whitehouse era First Lady or chic 70s Jackie-O - she was the definitive style icon.

If you were stranded on a desert island who and what would you take with you?

My best friends, classic movies, loads of linen and cashmere, and of course, a supply of great food and drink.

How do you relax?

Going on holiday, reading a bad novel on the beach with lots of magazines, my ipod and a drink.

Name three things every woman needs in her wardrobe for spring.

A pair of oversized sunglasses, a perfect white dress and jewelled sandals.

How can any woman inject a bit of Michael Kors glamour into their style?

Get a tan, bleach your teeth, enjoy life.

Where do you want to be 10 years from now?

On a beach.