Simon Doonan pursued a life in fashion because he was, as he noted in our conversation, “mesmerized by what shimmered on the horizon.” Currently the Creative Ambassador for Barney’s New York, Doonan was previously the department store’s Creative Director where he was known, amongst many things, for constructing some of the world’s most famous window displays. Highly prolific, Doonan has written six books, beginning with “Confessions of a Window Dresser” in 2001, and he writes a bimonthly column for the magazine, Slate. Happily married to interior designer and home guru, Jonathan Adler, Mr. Doonan is one of the most creative and clever individuals you will ever come across. I sat down at lunch with Simon (we dined at Fred’s at Barney’s, of course!) and loved interviewing him. It is an honor to feature such a visionary on The Zeitgeist.
I love your writing and column on Slate. Out of curiosity, what are you reading right now?
I just started reading a gripping novel by Herman Koch titled The Dinner. I like horrid murder mysteries. Ruth Rendell is one of my faves.
One of the things I took away from your book “Beautiful People” was what a true and trusted friend you are. What do you value most in a companion?
I have loads of long-term friendships. The one thing they all have in common is a great sense of humor. Who doesn’t love a good chuckle?
Death is not an option- if you were stuck on a deserted island, would you rather be with someone humorless or someone who has terrible taste?
I LOVE bad taste. So definitely the latter. Plus, I think bad taste is a subjective concept which does not really exist.
You mentioned earlier that you like Tai Chi. What is your favorite name of a Tai Chi movement?
I am an idiot and get them all confused. Brushing the monkey perhaps?
I love seeing your “Throw Back Thursdays” on Instagram. What is your favorite Halloween costume you’ve ever worn?
I once shared a studio in LA with a fab costume designer named Susan Nininger. She did Whitney Houston’s outfits in Bodyguard, amongst other things. She loaned me this amazing pumpkin light-up costume which she had made.
How did you come up with the Elfie Selfie?
I have an infantile love of wordplay. I wrote ad copy for years so that probably helped.
Who’s the last person that made you laugh, and why?
My husband, Jonathan Adler, just called me “shrimpy”. He is very naughty!!!
All images courtesy of Simon Doonan.