February 8, 2007—As the unofficial face of fashion week and the official Vice President of IMG Fashion, producers of Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week, Fern Mallis goes to every show and knows every designer. She’s first in line when it comes to trend forecasters, so I decided to get some one-on-one time during the Accessories Exhibit party.

It’s important to note, how nice she is and how comfortable she made me feel during the interview. After all, while I do fancy myself an uber-powerful business woman, Fern has always seemed like such a dominating figure to me. Interesting, how our minds play tricks on us. Next time I see her, it’s going to be like we’re bosom buddies …. I can dream, can’t I?

BT: What at the accessory trends we’re seeing for fall?
Fern: Oh gosh. I’m still waiting on the definitive trends. I’m praying that the shoes will calm down a bit because I think we’ve seen so many unbelievable stilettos and platforms that people are killing themselves in.

BT: Absolutely. At the end of the week I’m done and down on low heals.
Fern: Yes, exactly. I keep bringing in two different shoes to wear because it’s hard on these floors.

BT: What do you think about the direction for bags?
Fern: I think the bags are getting a bit more reasonable in size. I think after all the bad backs and broken shoulders and people walking around with luggage almost, it’s just gotten too big.

BT: How is the Accessories Exhibit going?
Fern: There are some wonderful pieces here. Very organic jewelry and an opportunity to discover and meet some new designers.

BT: Any change on expanding the exhibit?
Fern: Well, we could get more in the fountain and more people; and if people see more publicity about it, then more people will want to be a part of it. That is why we are doing this party and I think it’s good. It’s a nice turn out and good media and lots of the designers are here. It was nice having Rachel and Alek and Lela Rose and a bunch of other people here.

BT: As for the clothing, what has been your favorite show thus far?
Fern: Oh, I’m too much of a diplomat to answer that.

Pamela Pekerman, Bag Guru

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