How I Built This with Guy Raz Norma Kamali: Norma Kamali
Feb 1, 2021
Norma Kamali, an iconic fashion designer, began her journey in the 1960s when she unexpectedly shifted from airline clerk to fashion visionary. She shares tales of her early trips to London that sparked her design passion and how her sleeping bag coat became a trendsetter. From dressing celebrities to navigating personal challenges, Norma highlights the evolution of fashion and the importance of community support. She also emphasizes embracing aging in style and the emotional stories behind her designs, showcasing her indelible mark on the industry.
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First Job Interview
- Norma Kamali's first job interview in the garment center was a humiliating experience.
- The interviewer objectified her and she left devastated, leading her to pursue a job at an airline.
London Calling
- Norma Kamali took an airline job for travel discounts, specifically the $29 round trip to London.
- Every weekend, she flew to London, immersing herself in the vibrant fashion scene.
Swinging Sixties
- In London's vibrant 60s scene, Norma Kamali befriended musicians like Jeff Beck and Jimi Hendrix.
- She brought back mini skirts to New York, shocking people accustomed to longer hemlines.
