Tory Burch Strikes a Musical Chord on ‘The Tory Blog’
Tory Burch is a power player in the fast-paced world of American fashion. In only eight years, she’s become one of New York’s most popular and award-winning womenswear designers, with her looks gracing Oprah’s radar within a year of her launch. Her gold “T” medallion is ubiquitous, especially on her signature Reva flats, which remain a mainstay in upscale women’s fashion. Burch is also a philanthropist; her self-titled non-profit foundation connects women and their families to new economic opportunies.
Now Burch is also an editor in charge of her own curated online platform. The Tory Blog is a celebration of the finer things in life and hails other creative spirits in music, art, film, food and culture who serve as her inspirations. The Tory Blog’s first issue caters towards music, highlighting female performers.
Burch chatted with Rolling Stone about the Tory Blog’s agenda, how music fuels her life and which figures in music dress the sharpest. She also shares a special Spotify playlist with us, which you can check out here.
What made you want to start the Tory Blog and, more specifically, for it to venture into music?
We love the social aspect of blogs and the ability to share ideas that inspire us, and music is a big part of that. Doing a music issue was natural. Ever since I was little, it has been an obsession of mine. We’re fascinated with music culture, and it’s always a part of what we do. There is music playing in every corner of the office. I think it’s interesting that we all have the same experiences with music, even if what we like is different. It’s tied to memory and a feeling of where you were when you first heard a song, whether it was 20 years ago or this morning.
What are the most important qualities any blog, especially one helmed by a well-known personality, should have?
It has to have a sense of discovery. I always find it interesting to learn new things when I’m on other blogs. I like sites with interesting content and great visuals.
What is your approach to music discovery and how does that relate to you discovering new ideas about design, style, etc?
I’m an information gatherer, especially when it comes to music. I love hearing new music and always ask people what they are listening to now. That said, I will always listen to the music from my youth — Sixties and Seventies. It’s the same concept; I wear things from different decades. The best mix is vintage and new, classic and eclectic.
Will the Tory Blog focus on artists you’re personally a fan of or delve into trendier territory?
We feature artists we’re personally fans of, and we’re constantly bringing it into the culture of the company. We’re doing more short artistic films and supporting young artists on the blog and our Spotify playlists. We’re also collaborating with [film music supervisor] Randall Poster. When a friend of mine introduced us, I knew I needed to work with him. I loved the soundtrack he created for The Darjeeling Limited and everything else he has done.
What artists speak to you the most right now?
[Soul artist] Michael Kiwanuka, Edward Sharpe & the Magnetic Zeros, Grouplove, Tennis, the Cure, Patsy Cline and Van Morrison.
What looks/outfit ideas do you think translate best from the music world to a smart modern dresser’s wardrobe?
I like the play of a strong, edgy sound with a well-tailored suit (like the Kinks or Patti Smith). Of course, I also like a touch of bohemia. Actually, Prince once wore one of our first tunics onstage. So fashion translates both ways.
Who is the most visually fascinating performer you’ve ever seen?
Beyoncè. She’s exquisite and has an incredible voice. And she can dance.
If Tory Burch were a band or artist, who would they be? If Spring 2013 was
an album, what would it be?
The Clash — we like mixing print, pattern and color. Spring 2013 is still in progress…
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