While it makes perfect sense, it will probably take a few more years before this would be seriously considered. Despite the rise of digital, magazine editors still hold so much sway that it’s difficult to imagine them giving up their 3-month lead time, or moment of importance being photographed front row.

Massenet says that a skilled editor or buyer can look at something on a rack and know if it’s right, and we have to agree. When covering the Vendome Luxury and Rendez-Vous trade shows in Paris, there were plenty of pieces that stood out just because they were great products. There weren’t any light shows, music, special effects or special displays, and they weren’t needed. There weren’t a lot of models, or spectacles, but it was really much better that way. There were designers who stopped us to tell us why their line was unique, and encourage us to touch, representatives who were happy to let us browse and snap pictures, and fortunately, much more time than the 60 or so seconds you get to try to experience the same thing from a seat along the runaway.

Are runway shows exciting? Absolutely, but if fashion wants to make the most of them, we agree with Massenet that it’s a production best reserved for the real VIPs – the customers and fans of a brand.

Imran Amed, photographed by Daniel Cianfarra

While he’s been quoted in WWD and the New York Times for his familiarity with fashion’s social and technology moves, we couldn’t help but wonder about the products, places and things that define Mr. Amed’s signature style. Who better than someone who could be considered one of fashion’s savviest shoppers?

Clothing

ICHO Tokyo image via The Business of Fashion

My tailors of choice are ICHO of Tokyo. They intuitively understand my personal aesthetic and make quality clothes that will never go out of style.

Shoes

Daniele Alessandrini Hitops

Recently, I’ve been into high-tops from Daniele Alessandrini and Creative Recreation. We wrote about the aesthetic versatility of this new breed of sneakers on The Business of Fashion recently. You can wear them just about anywhere, for any occasion.

Watches & Jewelry

For many years, I told time from my BlackBerry. I couldn’t get into all those big, flashy statement watches. But then, a friend who is a watch aficionado found me a vintage 1960s Carrera Heuer watch in mint condition. It pre-dates Tag Heuer, the merged brand that we all know today, and has got a small, discreet dial face. I have to wind it myself everyday.

Grooming

Dermalogica Products

I like Dermalogica, whose products are not laden with marketing fuss and buzzwords. They are just simple and effective.

Accessories

m0851 Leather Bags

I went to university in Montréal, home to m0851, whose leather products get softer and more beautiful with time. My passport wallet, laptop tote, and overnight bag are all from here.

Home & Design

The walls in my apartment are covered with artwork, mementos and photos from my travels around the world. Each piece has its own story, which makes it more than just ‘art’.

Electro/tech

Canon S90

The Business of Fashion is completely reliant on technology. I would be hopeless without my iBook, Flip video camera, and BlackBerry, for responding to emails and doing interviews like this one, on the go.

I’ve recently started using the S90 camera by Canon, which I absolutely love because it works really well in low light and takes great quick shots from the sidelines of a fashion show. I just tested it out in Paris for the men’s shows and it is great.

Food

Ottolenghi Croissants

When in London, I start my day with pastries and a cappucino from Ottolenghi on Ledbury Road. It’s hard to find a good croissant in London, but the ones at Ottolenghi have a perfect crisp outer layer and a soft, flaky inside with just the right amount of butter. Plus, they serve you with a smile.

Travel

Hotel Lancaster's Dietrich Suite

I prioritize service over style — but having both is obviously better. In Paris, I stay at Hotel Lancaster, which is on a dodgy (yet conveniently located) street off the Champs Elysées, but has impeccable service where everybody knows your name.