15 Minutes

The Kors Score
The über-American designer and ‘Project Runway’ judge conquers D.C.

Walk into any Hill hearing or G-town bash, and you’ll spot women clad in Michael Kors. The sportswear king, already popular here, makes a bigger footprint this spring by opening Michael Kors Lifestyle stores at the Fashion Centre at Pentagon City and Tysons Corner Center and, by fall, a shop-in-shop at Neiman Marcus at Mazza Gallerie. He chatted about his invasion. JENNIFER BARGER

Why is D.C. a good spot for your styles?
Women in Washington want to look great and feel current, but they still understand investment and looking appropriate. Because of government and politics, they walk a tightrope. My clothes represent that blending of classic and trendy.

The first lady is one of your D.C. fans, right?
Michelle Obama is the kind of woman I think about when I design, the jugglers who have a lot of things going on in their lives, but still want to look great.

Has the economic downturn effected your design process?
When the economy is in a tougher state, I’m more self-critical. I look at designs in a pragmatic way. Styles have got to be glamorous and new. But at the same time, how many ways can you wear that dress? Can it change seasons or go straight to a cocktail party? That sort of sporty glamour is important to me.

Did “Project Runway” change the way we look at fashion?
Before “Runway,” people thought clothes magically appeared in stores or on your back. It’s given people a greater appreciation for design talent.