Paul Wilmot of Paul Wilmot Communications

Much of New York is currently in the throes of pre-fashion week planning—which means designers, production houses, and PR firms are all hunkered down trying to pull off a series of logistical feats (and oh yeah, create inspiring collections too).

Fortunately, we managed to snag PR guru Paul Wilmot—one of our Be Discovered Design a Dress contest judges—to pick his brain about what goes on behind the scenes and why one’s gut reaction trumps a Project Runway win:

What was your first big break?
I have been in PR for over 25 years and my biggest break was when I was named global senior vice president for public relations and communications at Calvin Klein in 1984. I held that position until 1990 when I left to join Conde Nast Publications.

What’s the best part of your current gig?
Undoubtedly the best part of my job now is working with our diverse client base. One minute we are strategizing on the launch of a new fashion line, the next opening a hotel in Europe and the next planning the opening night of a Whitney Museum Art Gala. The divergence and the new challenges are what get me going every day of the week.

Describe on of the most unexpected aspects of your job:
The most unexpected part of the job is that people have come to recognize the agency as sort of a go to place to do press relations for luxury goods, fashion and accessories. I am still amazed at the calls we get from all over the world seeking our counsel. Truly when we opened the company 11 years ago I thought we would attract some loyal clients but never did I think we would develop a base of over 55 clients headquartered all over the world. I am very grateful and slightly astonished.

With new labels constantly popping up in the industry, how can you spot a successful designer or brand?
You know, with all of the market research, focus groups and consumer polls that live in the world of marketing there is still no substitution for “gut reaction” and the good feeling when one is exposed to a stylish new fashion line or being introduced to a new designer. It is, after all a “taste” business and you cannot legislate good taste and beautiful fashion offerings. It is to me, a little like the film business. It’s either a good movie or it isn’t and you can’t make the public go to a bad movie or buy fashions that aren’t well crafted and thoughtfully designed.

*Enter your dress sketch in this year’s Be Discovered design contest

*Read the inspiring story of last year’s winner 

*Get inspired by checking out the best party dresses 

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