Podcast Title: The Goodbye
Episode: Isaac Mizrahi on Style, Regrets, and the Perfect Pair of Pumps
Release Date: December 13, 2024
Host/Author: Harper's Bazaar (Hosts: Leah Chernikoff and Lynette Nylander)

Overview

In this engaging episode of The Goodbye, Harper's Bazaar hosts Leah Chernikoff and Lynette Nylander sit down with American fashion icon Isaac Mizrahi. The conversation delves deep into Isaac's illustrious career in fashion, his personal style evolution, memorable moments from his early days, and his perspectives on modern fashion trends. Listeners are treated to a candid discussion filled with insightful anecdotes, thoughtful reflections, and Isaac's unique viewpoints on the ever-changing landscape of fashion.

Introduction to Isaac Mizrahi

Lynette Nylander (04:15):
Isaac Mizrahi is introduced as an American fashion icon whose influence spans decades. Recognized as a designer, cabaret star, TV personality, and a fashion oracle, Isaac has recently gained attention on TikTok, where he showcases his diverse collections ranging from Belgian loafers to Italian cookware.

Isaac Mizrahi (04:29):
Expresses his enthusiasm about being a guest on The Goodbye.

Early Life and Entry into Fashion

Isaac Mizrahi (05:09):
Isaac shares his early passion for fashion, originating from making costumes for puppets and clothing during his time at performing arts high school. Initially training as an actor, his fear of the uncertainties in show business led him to pivot towards fashion.

Isaac Mizrahi (05:14):
Highlights his transition from Parsons School of Design directly to Perry Ellis, eventually launching his own company in 1986 and debuting his first show in 1987.

Memories from His First Fashion Show

Isaac Mizrahi (05:50):
Recalls being intensely focused on the intricate details of his first show, noting the demanding nature of managing multiple outfits per model without the support of producers or stylists.

Isaac Mizrahi (06:20):
Shares anecdotes about working with supermodels like Naomi Campbell and Linda, emphasizing the frantic pace of changing outfits during shows.

Style Inspirations and Influences

Isaac Mizrahi (07:04):
Delves into his fascination with thrifting during his high school years, describing how vintage finds with character influenced his design aesthetics.

Isaac Mizrahi (07:30):
Discusses the educational experiences at Parsons, including hands-on lessons like the "burn test" to differentiate between fabrics—a practice he humorously suggests Marc Jacobs would relate to.

Isaac Mizrahi (08:31):
Expresses admiration for timeless craftsmanship, lamenting the shift towards fast fashion and the fleeting nature of contemporary luxury apparel. He reminisces about influential figures like Carrie Bradshaw and the unintended consequences of their fashion-forward approaches.

Views on Modern Fashion and Fast Fashion

Isaac Mizrahi (08:56):
Critiques the current fashion industry's embrace of fast fashion, highlighting the ephemeral commitment to even high-end pieces, which contrasts sharply with the enduring quality he values.

Isaac Mizrahi (09:58):
Acknowledges his role as a fashion influencer on social media, meticulously curating and maintaining his extensive collection of high-quality items, ensuring longevity and meaningful usage.

Personal Style and Signature Looks

Isaac Mizrahi (12:14):
Reveals his preference for dark colors—black, navy, charcoal gray—stemming from personal body image issues. He candidly discusses his support for body positivity while admitting his struggles with it.

Isaac Mizrahi (13:14):
Shares his enduring habit of wearing bandanas, attributing their origin to various sources like 14th Street and brands like 45 RPM and Liberty of London, enhancing his daily style with practical and stylish accessories.

Shopping and First Buys

Isaac Mizrahi (14:37):
Recounts his first significant purchase—a Hermes agenda from 1982—emphasizing its lasting impact over 42 years. This purchase symbolizes his early commitment to quality and luxury.

Isaac Mizrahi (15:32):
Narrates the story of acquiring his first Manolo Blahnik pumps during his time at Parsons. The investment, made alongside a friend, underscores the importance he places on footwear in elevating overall style.

Regrets in the Closet

Isaac Mizrahi (17:56):
Expresses regret over owning tailored suits that no longer fit due to body changes. He reflects on the psychological aspects of maintaining a stylish persona versus practical usage of clothing.

Isaac Mizrahi (18:41):
Discusses his deep appreciation for Savile Row's craftsmanship and the educational value it provided him, despite feeling out of place at times. He reminisces about the meticulous tailoring that once captivated him.

Repeat Purchases and Indispensable Items

Isaac Mizrahi (21:44):
Highlights his perpetual love for a giant black cashmere shawl from Loro Piana. Describing it as "thick as butter," Isaac explains its versatility and indispensability across various settings, from travel to daily use.

Thoughts on Luxury and Modern Trends

Isaac Mizrahi (22:48):
Shares his limited patience for much of contemporary design but praises specific talents within the industry, citing admiration for designers like the creative mind behind Loewe.

Isaac Mizrahi (23:03):
Critiques the modern industry's focus on transient luxuries, advocating instead for enduring quality and meaningful investments in fashion.

Reflections on New York’s Style Evolution

Isaac Mizrahi (25:00):
Reflects nostalgically on New York City's transformation, balancing the city's inherent decrepitude with its architectural marvels. He appreciates the juxtaposition of old and new, which imbues the city with a unique character.

Isaac Mizrahi (27:16):
Describes his teenage years commuting through a changing Times Square, using vivid language to portray the area's squalid yet divine ambiance—a stark contrast to planned historical cities like Paris and Rome.

Isaac Mizrahi (28:17):
Emphasizes the beauty found in the aged and decrepit aspects of New York, drawing parallels to personal experiences that highlight the city's enduring humanity and historical layers.

Dream Purchases and Aspirations

Isaac Mizrahi (29:31):
Reveals his aspiration to own a Maybach, inspired by witnessing Missy Elliott utilizing one during a fashion show strike. This dream embodies his appreciation for luxury and functionality.

Closing Thoughts

As the conversation winds down, Isaac Mizrahi shares his transition towards creating more practical and value-oriented clothing lines for brands like Macy's and QVC. He underscores a shift from being a demanding designer to prioritizing simplicity and durability in his creations.

Isaac Mizrahi (24:19):
Concludes by reaffirming his dedication to maintaining relevance in the challenging fashion industry, embracing both his past passions and current endeavors.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• Isaac Mizrahi (08:31):
  “We worshiped Manolo because he was wearing these gorgeous old suits that he had made when he was years old on Savile Row.”

• Isaac Mizrahi (12:14):
  “The more dark colors I wear, the thinner I feel like I look. And that's terrible.”

• Isaac Mizrahi (14:37):
  “It's broken into two parts of the year. You have the first six months and the second six months, and they make the refills, which themselves are like $300.”

• Isaac Mizrahi (21:44):
  “I have to have that blanket with me at all times. I have one in each car.”

• Isaac Mizrahi (25:00):
  “There was something about the way they used to tailor clothes. The experience was addictive.”

Conclusion

This episode offers a comprehensive glimpse into Isaac Mizrahi's rich experience in the fashion industry, his personal style journey, and his enduring love for quality and craftsmanship. Through candid conversations and memorable anecdotes, listeners gain valuable insights into the mind of a true fashion legend, celebrating both his achievements and his candid reflections on the industry's evolution.