Neiman Marcus power player and industry veteran, Jodi Kahn, has taken on a major new role after 14 years with a well-known multi-brand retailer. The new Dallas-based vice president of luxury fashion didn’t waste a single second either. Since taking over her role, Khan has delivered 12 of her up-and-coming start-up brands and overseen major partnerships such as the runaway success of Balmain x Barbie. We caught up with her during the hectic NYFW to see how things are going and what’s to come before embarking on a whistling tour across Europe for shows in London, Paris and Milan. I heard!
What will you do in your new role?
This is a unique and very exciting new role that combines my fashion insider perspective with strong business acumen. As Fashion Director, I oversee the fashion office, but Neiman works closely with all buying her offices and brands her partners to deliver best-in-class collections and exceptional experiences to her Marcus customers. I keep doing it. My goal is always to ensure that luxury fashion is at the heart of what Neiman Marcus does. Meet new brands and designers to introduce to our customers.
Are you ready for Fashion Month?
We think about the mood of each city and how it inspires your everyday looks. It’s a business trip of more than a month, so prepare early! I have a rolling rack and started adding pieces about a month ago. From there, identify the key pieces to build your look. It’s been a while since I’ve been away from home in Dallas, but it’s been fun figuring out what to wear in each city once the show schedule is announced! Denim, so excited about Christian Louboutin’s favorite mules for running around town.
Jodi Kahn
What are your NYFW essentials?
A phone charger and AirPods are a must! I’m constantly taking pictures, so a fully charged iPhone is a must. I use his AirPods to keep track of business meetings and work between shows.
what is your morning routine?
A morning routine is essential for managing your physical condition while traveling! Whether it’s at the hotel gym or a class at Barry’s Bootcamp, I always try to incorporate an early morning workout into my day.My workouts are just as important to my mental health as my physical health, giving me the energy I need for a long day at shows, events and showrooms. WWD, fashion business, When trendy business…and of course, Daily front row!
What does a typical day look like?
My day starts early in the morning and goes non-stop until late afternoon. It’s a very exciting mix of shows, press events, editorial appointments, client meetings, showroom appointments, Neiman his Marcus potential brands and his partner scouting. It’s a chaotic schedule, but that’s one of the things he’s looking forward to.
What are you most looking forward to attending NYFW?
It’s such a privilege to be up close and personal with every show and showroom appointment I attend. It feels like our version of a ‘back to school’ reunion catching up with editors, stylists and designers. Identifying new and notable talent is a key focus for our team during Fashion Week. . As we aim to become the leading fashion authority in luxury retail, we want to prioritize novelty and ensure a diverse range of brands. Seeing new collections and designers that really excite discerning customers is always a highlight.
What is your absolute favorite part of being on the show?
The energy before the show starts is always exciting and contagious. As soon as the lights go out, it’s exciting (and a little unnerving) to see the designer’s creativity and vision come to life.
Any other highlights from this season?
My favorite moment during New York Fashion Week was co-hosting the Neiman Marcus Live Your Luxury Fall campaign cocktail party with Jason Rembert and Erin Walsh. We celebrated and had fun at the same time with a diverse, dynamic and creative fashion community.
Anne Hathaway and Jodi Kahn at the Neiman Marcus Live Your Luxury event (courtesy)
What do you usually do when you are in NYC?
I love finding new workout studios to try when in NYC. Trying new restaurants when I’m in town is also a highlight – I love Cucina Alba and my all-time favorite is The Polo Bar. It makes me happy! In my spare time, I like to explore different neighborhoods and am often inspired by different street style looks unique to New York.
What helps balance everything?
Stay organized! I am fortunate to have a great team that I can rely on while traveling to keep my day-to-day business moving.
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