Introducing Todd Snyder, On His Own
Todd Snyder, Fall 2011
Todd Snyder, the founder of his namesake men’s line, once received this advice: “Work for the best.” Since those four words of wisdom were uttered, he’s worked for Ralph Lauren and J. Crew. When he turned 40, he took a leap of faith and ventured onto his own, launching a line of classic pieces for the modern man.
Designer Todd Snyder
NM: How would you sum up your collection, in one sentence?
TS: Classic, modern and timeless is how I start every season.
NM: You’ve been incorporating the ideals of the word “smart” into your clothes. What does this word mean to you? Why is it so important to your creative process?
TS: The word “smart” to me is all about designing the balance between classic and modern. Picking the right pieces in a man’s wardrobe and reinventing them with luxurious fabrics and a modern fit.
Todd Snyder, Fall 2011
Todd Snyder, Fall 2011
NM: What are your must-have items for Fall?
TS: Funny – that’s how I designed the line. I thought about the must-haves that every guy should own. I started with our selvedge chino. It has a great fit – slim but not too slim, and I used a Japanese selvage fabric that really updated an all-time classic.
The military trench is amazing. It’s classic but modern. I took an old military trench that I found in a vintage thrift store in London and updated it with a nylon/cotton fabric. I also added a zip-out liner for weather versatility and made the fit the perfect length and proportions.
Todd Snyder, Fall 2011
NM: What compelled you to venture out on your own, leaving your days at J.Crew behind?
TS: It was always my dream and goal to design my own line. I had turned 40 and decided it was time to leave and do my own thing. It’s a dream come true.
Todd Snyder, Fall 2011
NM: Are there certain men you have in mind when designing? Who are they?
TS: I get very inspired while traveling. I am a people watcher and love watching how people dress in big cities. I like comparing and contrasting people in New York, Los Angeles, London, Tokyo etc…I love seeing some cool guy and how they interpret the trends.
NM: What’s the difference, in your opinion, between style and fashion?
TS: Style is enduring. Fashion comes and goes. Cary Grant had great style. I still get inspired by him.
Todd Snyder, Fall 2011
NM: How would you define the Todd Snyder lifestyle? Do you have any plans to grow this?
TS: Ask me in a few years. I don’t have a lifestyle yet—only Ralph does. I look at buying clothing as an investment and what I design can be worn today, or years from now.
Todd Snyder men’s wear is available in select Neiman Marcus stores.
