Ever since the 1970s, New York-based Norma Kamali has been the go-to designer for high-octane glamour and must-have swimwear that doesn’t have a shelf life. A style legend in her own right, it was Norma that designed the red swimsuit worn by Farrah Fawcett in the iconic 1976 pin-up poster.
Her fashion collections have been exhibited at New York’s Metropolitan Museum of Art, but the designer’s most recent creative focus is on wellness with ‘Normalife’, a capsule line of gender-fluid skincare – and a unisex fragrance soon to follow.
“I’ve had some amazing mentors in the wellness arena and today I see the need for clarity and simplicity in understanding what’s needed for a healthy lifestyle,” Norma says.
So how does a fashion designer-turned-wellness guru like to vacation? From healthy lifestyle podcasts to airport meditation, we delve into the suitcase psyche of Norma Kamali.
What’s the first trip you remember taking?
London – and it’s always had a pull for me. I was travelling the world but I was also in London every weekend for four years from 1965 to 1969. London was like the centre of the universe and I was there.
What’s been your favourite vacation and why?
I always find Marrakech so inspirational, but I also loved the culture and people of the Lebanon Mountains.
Where or what is your escape?
For me, it’s all about beach, exercise, healthy food, sleep and meditation – less is more. Sleep, diet and exercise are the three pillars of a healthy lifestyle.
Do you get away often?
I try to. Works means I travel to the fashion capitals – London, Milan and Paris – often to present my collections to my European distributors. I also like to travel to the Middle East, most recently to Lebanon to visit family in Ehden.
What’s the biggest lesson you’ve taken from your travels?
Travel light, travel smart, plan ahead and talk to everyone!
Where would you travel with friends?
I like to go to a spa and relax with girlfriends – any Aman spa.
What’s your idea of a luxury holiday?
I travel so much for work, so for vacation I head for sun in the Caribbean.
If you could sit next to anyone – dead or alive – on a long-haul flight, who would it be?
My dog, Zeke – he brings me great comfort. I don’t like to talk on a plane, I prefer to think and draw.
How do you usually recover from jet-lag?
A cleanse when I land. Getting enough sleep is the most important thing for me – I get at least eight hours sleep a night.
Your flight’s delayed an hour and your phone’s out of battery. How do you pass the time?
I’d draw, write down thoughts and ideas, and meditate. I started meditation in the 70s. For beginners, I recommend laying down meditation and follow a breathing practice listening to a recording. Meditation works especially for me in the middle of the day – it brings me back to square one and balances me for the afternoon.
What’s your favourite hotel?
Royal Mansour Marrakech because it’s such a brilliant example of the materials and craftsmanship of Morocco.
What’s on your travel playlist?
I mainly listen to podcasts on healthy lifestyle and humour.
Where’s next?
A domestic flight to the USA.
What are your must-have suitcase picks?
First thing that comes to your mind
Your hand-luggage essential?
Moisturiser.
Packing: roll or fold?
I always roll.
Time killer on a long-haul flight?
Answer emails and update Instagram.
Holiday tipple of choice?
Hmm, anything that’s not alcoholic.
Bucket list top destination?
India – the south.
Best shopping gem found abroad?
Some healing tinctures from Marrakech.
Beach or City?
Beach.
Ultimate holiday treat?
Sleep.
Any Questions or Tips to add?