Gigi Hadid’s collaboration with Tommy Hilfiger has been a sell-out four-season success, culminating in Drive – a final collection inspired by the designer’s love of motor sports.
“The watch is really a part of the accessories collection that I thought was important,” the model told us prior to the show in Milan. “Each collection has shown a different side to my style, and this is the sleekest, sportiest watch we’ve done – I really like it for that reason.”
“The colour is so easy to wear with everything,” explained Hadid of her decision to make it navy blue. “Gold or silver can feel a bit fancy sometimes, which is what we’ve done in previous collections. This is a nice dark metal and feels more sporty. My dad loves it and he’s the big watch person in the family.”
While the 22-year-old is no stranger to turning her hand to clothing design, creating a watch requires a totally different skill set.
“When we designed the whole ready-to-wear collection there’s more space for all your ideas, but when it’s a watch you have to simplify that down and think of something that’s going to work with the entire range,” she explained. “I always kept them simple, while still respecting the theme of the collection.”
But with everyone having a smartphone, tablet or screen within arm’s reach at all times, is there really a need for a traditional timepiece in quite the same way as before? Absolutely, says Hadid, pointing out that it can, in fact, help to encourage you to step away from your phone.
“I especially like [wearing a watch] during the times when I don’t have my phone,” said Hadid. “For example, when I’m on the farm I’d rather leave my phone at my house. I’m not really into the whole Apple watch thing, having all your text messages on your wrist – I think that’s a bit much for me. If I’m going to have my watch on and I’m going to put my phone away I don’t want to be carrying my phone around – I’m still into the classic timepiece.”
And when it looks as good as this one, it’s easy to see why.
From: Harper’s BAZAAR UK