in his element
Story by Susan O'Connor, Photo by Dero Sanford

Carter Kidd came face to face with the fashion world in New York City in July with an internship at Jimmy Choo and classes at the Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT). An aspiring designer, Kidd was absolutely in his element.
“The whole experience was surreal,” the Jonesboro High School senior said with passion. “I was pinching myself the entire time. I already knew I wanted to be a fashion designer, but being in New York City solidified that. That’s what I want to do.”

Kidd is well on his way with award-winning designs, including a first place in this year’s Project Red Dress design contest and a first place in costume design through the International Thespian Society.

Though he had traveled to New York City several times before, this journey stretched from July 4-31. He had already planned to take classes at FIT when he learned from a family member about a Jonesboro connection with Jimmy Choo, the world-renowned shoe designer. Choo’s vice president of wholesale is Savvas Kaminarides, who grew up here.

“I just sent an email and asked for the opportunity,” Kidd said. “He was super nice. It was such an amazing thing that he let me come in and intern.”
Of course, what to wear on the first day at Jimmy Choo is a daunting decision. Kidd said he chose a cross between a suit jacket and a motorcycle jacket, his take on a “work suit.”

“I was expecting a ‘Devil Wears Prada’ experience,” he explained. “I was petrified. Everyone there was really interested what I was doing — I was a high school student from Arkansas! As the month progressed, we were like a family. I didn’t want to leave.”

Kidd described the atmosphere at Jimmy Choo as very laid back and casual, and he was exposed to buyers from Bergdorf Goodman, Neiman Marcus, Saks and other high-end retailers as they chose the styles of handbags and shoes their stores would carry for the upcoming season. He also ran lots of errands around the city, picking up shoes from different stores. More importantly, however, were the life lessons learned. Kidd said that as he observed another intern take her responsibilities lightly, he resolved to do the very best job possible.

“I learned the value of hard work and how your attitude can put you above everyone else.”

On his last day, Kidd was invited to choose any item he wanted from the sample closet. This is not an opportunity afforded to every intern, he was told. He chose a leather handbag with python inserts for his mother, Carla Kidd.
“She cried when I gave it to her,” he said. “She didn’t want me to bring her anything back. She helped me get there.

She is the reason I was able to go. She is the most wonderful person.”

At the summer program for high school students at FIT, Kidd took classes in fashion art for fashion designers, as well as fine arts classes that will boost his portfolio.

Other highlights of his New York experience include the Macy’s Fourth of July fireworks display, a Lady Gaga concert and lots of great shopping.

Will he return to New York to continue an education in fashion? Kidd says, "Yes. It’s not a phase. I’ve wanted to do this for a really long time. I love Arkansas — it’s where I’m from and I appreciate my heritage. I have great friends here. For once, though, I felt like I was in the right place."

Where do you shop?
Gap, vintage stores and consignment shops. I’m a sales junkie — a bargain rack is heaven. I’m a little edgy. I don’t always buy the most traditional things.

Who are your favorite designers?
For men, Alexander McQueen, Tom Ford, Karl Lagerfeld, Marc Jacobs;
for women, Alber Elbaz of Lanvin, Ricardo Tisci of Givenchy.

What are the fashion staples every guy should have?
Great white shirt, sunglasses that fit your face, really good cologne (my signature scent is Polo Black), dark washed jeans, wing tip oxfords and good socks and a classic watch – mine would be a Chanel J12.

What is the last book you read?
Eat, Pray, Love.

How do you spend your free time?
I love yoga, working out and cooking. And there is nothing that can’t be cured
with a hot bath.