Naeem Khan

Muse: His wife, Ranjana, who also designed tulle-covered pearl necklaces for Lanvin
Studio Space: A sprawling, Zen-like loft on West 36th Street
Fashionable Beginnings: Khan came to New York at the age of 19, accompanying his father, the owner of one of the world’s most respected beading and embroidery businesses, to a meeting with Halston. Embroidery would end up being Naeem’s signature embellishment in his future design work.
NY Inspiration: In the 1970s Khan would spend his days at The Met with the legendary Diana Vreeland and the Harper’s Bazaar editor D.D. Ryan, and evenings among Manhattan’s glitterati, including artist Andy Warhol.
Notable Accomplishments: Khan designed the champagne gown, embroidered with sterling silver thread, that First Lady Michelle Obama wore in 2009 when she hosted her first White House state dinner, for Prime Minister Manmohan Singh and his wife, Gursharan Kaur, of India.
Only in New York: The Khans can often be found at classic Manhattan eateries like Raoul’s, Bar Pitti, Cipriani, or Minetta Tavern as well as new hot spots like En, spending time with their notable friends including Bergforf Goodman’s Linda Fargo and Colin Cowie.
Latest Project: Naeem Khan’s creations are on display in the phantasmagorical and festive holiday windows of Saks Fifth Avenue and Bergdorf Goodman.
Shop: Bergdorf Goodman, 754 Fifth Ave., 800-558-1855; Saks Fifth Avenue, 611 Fifth Ave., 212-753-4000; naeemkhan.com

PHOTOGRAPH BY MICHAEL FILONOW