Israeli American Fashion Designer Yigal Azrouel. Photo: Irina Slutsky

CW: What got you into fashion design? Was it a childhood dream?

YA: It wasn’t per se but I had a very strong female influence around me growing up and I am sure it contributed.

CW: What’s a favorite kosher restaurant?

YA: I like Le Marais in the Theatre District for a great steak.

CW: Any free fashion tips?

YA: If you are comfortable in your clothing, you will look your best.  Fashion should feel effortless.

CW: Have you been affected by anti-Israel sentiments and attempts at BDS?

YA: No and I am happy to say that I do business throughout the Middle East.

CW: You fired your PR Company after the Fall/Winter 2009 Collection show for allowing Ashley Dupre into the audience, why didn’t you want her there?

YA: It was less about the individual and more about the point of view.  My team and I approve a guest list of attendees we would like to have present at our show and she wasn’t an invited guest.  The PR agency overstepped their boundaries.

CW: Any Jewish influences or inspiration for your designs?

YA: Less Jewish, perhaps ethnic.  I am of French-Moroccan decent.  Color and Kaftans was the traditional Shabbat attire when I was growing up and I still like both today.

CW: Born in Israel and now living in the U.S., what’s something you miss from the Holy Land?

YA: Besides all of my family, the food!