MANILA, Philippines - We all know that American Idol is a singing competition, but will contestants soon be vying for style points as well?
They’ll definitely learn some fashion lessons now that Tommy Hilfiger has joined Team Idol as image advisor. Starting last Thursday, March 15, Hilfiger started mentoring the finalists to define their performance identities and guide their style transformations. It’s not as if the American sportswear icon is new to the music scene: his eponymous brand took off thanks to hip-hoppers and he’s dressed Taylor Swift, Beyoncé and Britney Spears.
“I am honored to be joining Ryan, Steven, Jennifer, Randy and Jimmy for the 11th season of American Idol,” said Hilfiger. “My own experiences at the beginning of my career inspired my commitment to mentor young people who are dedicated to pursuing their dreams. Musicians can bring such a unique vision and personality to the stage. I admire risk takers who share my belief in the power of fashion to transform and influence, and I look forward to working with the artists to guide them in defining their performance style and identity.”
For more than 25 years, Hilfiger has brought the classic American lifestyle to consumers around the world, and his discerning taste has provided the foundation for the growth of a global brand. From the beginning of his career, Hilfiger has been inspired by music. He started his first business, People’s Place, at the age of 18, selling denim jeans and styling his brother’s band for local performances. As Hilfiger’s designs merged with popular culture, the company’s distinct brand message has continued to celebrate the long association between the brand and the music world. Under his namesake label, he has worked with music legends such as the Rolling Stones, Lenny Kravitz, and David Bowie.
Hilfiger’s diverse achievements in business, retail and fashion have earned him a variety of distinguished awards: Menswear Designer of the Year by the Council of Fashion Designers of America (1995); the Designer of the Year award from Parsons School of Design (1998); Designer of the Year in GQ’s annual “Men of the Year” issue (1998); GQ Germany’s International Designer of the Year award (2002); GQ Spain’s Designer of the Year (2006); Hispanic Federation’s Individual Achievement Award (2007); the Bambi Award for the fashion category (2008); Women’s Wear Daily’s No. 1 Designer in its Annual “10” List (2008); UNESCO Support Award (2009); Marie Claire’s Lifetime Achievement Award (2009); Pratt Institute’s Legends Award (2010); Philadelphia University’s Spirit of Design Award (2011); and, once again, Designer of the Year in GQ’s annual “Men of the Year” issue (2011).
In the Philippines, Tommy Hilfiger is exclusively distributed by Stores Specialists, Inc. (SSI) and is located at Greenbelt 5 and Shangri-La Plaza Mall.