Where is Fashion September is all about fashion — and who better to give us the scoop on how to look great this fall than prima fashionista Rachel Zoe? Dig into our dish interview with the Bravo TV star, then keep reading for the inside scoop on hot shopping this fall season.

Rachel Zoe: Empress of Style

Interview by Kristina Jenkins and Rosie Leonetti

Stylist, editor, designer, author, wife and—new to the list—mom, Rachel Zoe hits a runway-worthy stride this fall. In addition to a flourishing career dressing starlets, the fashion expert recently launched her first full retail line, a glamorous collection of autumn looks deserving of her signature catchphrase “I die!” This month, look for the season four premiere of Bravo’s “The Rachel Zoe Project,” an addictive reality series documenting the drama of Zoe’s fashion-filled life. Here, the “a-mah-zing” Zoe reports to Where® on the season’s top trends, globetrotting necessities and hopes for her son Skyler’s first fashion show.

“Never wear too many trends at once,” says Zoe. “Know your body and have everything tailored, whenever possible.”

What is on your radar for fall 2011?

Definitely the tuxedo look—suits, dresses and jumpsuits. Sequined tops and cardigans; pantsuits — anything brocade, tweed or military- inspired. Metallics from Oscar de la Renta, Stella McCartney and Balmain; polka dots from Lanvin and Marc Jacobs; bright colored coats from the Row, YSL, Burberry and Celine.

There is often a fine line between being fashion forward and becoming a fashion victim. What are your tips for navigating trends?

Never wear too many trends at once—don’t be a fashion victim. Know your body and have everything tailored, whenever possible. It’s the easiest and most crucial component to achieving both comfort and confidence with every look.

From styling and designing to writing a best-selling book and starring in your own TV show, you have built an empire. You’re also a new mom. How do you balance it all?

I love what I do—I have the best job so it never feels like work. And the constant support of the greatest husband and an incredible team makes the balance totally doable.

Has your son been to a fashion show yet? If not, whose show will you take him to first?

No he hasn’t yet—but I am so excited to share the experience of fashion week with him! He will obvi[ously] have to see Oscar, Donna, Marc, Vuitton, Chanel, Gucci, and Versace—to name a few.

You and your clients have traversed the globe. What is the secret to looking fabulous on the road? Is there a particular piece that everyone should have in their travel wardrobes?

Sunnies and a great scarf are essential! And a jumpsuit is always great for travel—comfortable yet super-chic and versatile. Try and pack fabrics that don’t wrinkle and always carry on your valuables.

What do you never leave home without when you’re going on a trip?

A Birkin.

Do you have a favorite vacation spot?

St. Barths.

Where in the world do you most love to shop (cities, specific boutiques, etc.)?

Paris! I am obsessed with the Parisian culture, it’s so timeless and chic. Every time I am there I spend an en- tire afternoon shopping for vintage at Didier Ludot and Scarlett—I die!

Is there a favorite find you’ve brought home from a trip?

Too many to choose from — probably all of my vintage furs.

What/where is the best museum you’ve ever visited?

Coco Chanel’s apartment in Paris — it’s the closest I can get to her — seriously major!

What is your most memorable fashion moment?

When I went as Marc Jacob’s date to the 2010 Met ball in the most amazing yellow velvet gown from his collection.

Who would you love to dress that you haven’t already?

I love all my clients. I am so lucky! They are all so beautiful inside and out. But I think Michelle Obama would be fun—her style is so classic yet modern and chic. Love her!

If you could impart one piece of fashion wisdom to travelers, what would it be?

Always travel in style! You never know who you might run into.

Rachel Zoe: Empress of Style

Zoe Hot List

Further Reading

External Links