Introduction to Tory Burch
Tory Burch, a renowned fashion designer, sat in a conference room with her team, discussing the latest designs. A model walked in wearing a sporty, box-shaped outfit with a satin jacket and leather cord threaded around the collar and hood. Burch’s stepdaughter, Pookie Burch, and stylist Brian Molloy were also present, providing their input on the design.
Design Discussion
The satin jacket was deemed a bit too "maternal evening" by Pookie, and the lacing was unusual. Burch, however, was not entirely convinced. The model changed into a new outfit, and Burch pulled out a dinner jacket from the 19th century from her archives. She noted that the details were strangely relevant, and her team studied the design. This kind of playful exploration of the past is common in Tory Burch meetings, where challenging each other’s ideas is encouraged.
Tory Burch’s Background
Burch met in her office to discuss her history. She talked about her childhood, growing up in a 15-bedroom house in Valley Forge, Pennsylvania, with her parents and numerous pets. Her mother, Reva, was a hardworking host who became a kind of proto-Martha Stewart. Burch attended a local Quaker school and later the University of Pennsylvania, where she studied art history. She spent a semester abroad, which gave her a sense of philanthropic purpose.
Career in Fashion
Burch’s first job after college was with a Yugoslav designer named Zoran, whose elegant, minimalist clothing her mother admired. She worked with Zoran, Ralph Lauren, Vera Wang, and Loewe before marrying entrepreneur J. Christopher Burch in 1996. She became a mother to his three young daughters and later had three sons with him. Working while raising young children was a challenge, but Burch managed to balance her career and family life.
Personal Life
Burch’s working morality comes from her mother, who always encouraged her to make her own money. She has a strong work ethic and is always coming up with new ideas for different companies. Despite the challenges of being a working mother, Burch looks back on her time at home with her children fondly. She is someone who does not need a lot of sleep and is always thinking about her next project.
Design Philosophy
Tory Burch’s design philosophy is centered around exploring the past and challenging each other’s ideas. She encourages her team to think creatively and push boundaries. Her designs are a fusion of classic and modern elements, with attention to detail and a sense of elegance. Whether she is working on a new collection or collaborating with other designers, Burch’s passion for fashion and her commitment to her craft are evident in everything she does.
