Spork Fashion was lucky enough to score an exclusive interview with Michael Fink, Women’s Fashion Director at Saks Fifth Avenue. The former music conductor (”One terrible teacher ruined it for me,” Fink bemoans) fell into fashion by accident. When he grabbed a retail job with a tailor he realized fashion was meant for him. Lucky us! Michael shares his thoughts on Fashion Week and offers some advice to emerging designers.

What is your favorite part about being women’s fashion director for Saks?
Going out and seeing new designers, up and coming people. Really coaching them, giving them direction, especially on how to run a business. I love the sense of discovery, finding something new. And I love meeting customers. I like to know what is relevant for real life.

Any predictions for what we will see on the Spring runways?
I think designers will be taking tailored dress even further, making it romantic and overtly feminine. Not girly, but feminine. Polka dots, lingerie influences, nothing vulgar. Spring season will return to a classic attitude, where you take care in how you look before leaving the house. You want to take the time to dress for the season. The season will speak about manners – it’s all about politeness. A little 1960s vibe, a little hippie summer-of-love. Lots of fringe, clunky shoes. The gladiator sandal trend will continue. It will be a little bohemian. I hope it switches to early 1970s rocker soon!

What shows are you looking forward to next week?
I can’t wait to see all of them! I try not to go in with any preconceived notions. I might be really looking forward to one designer, and be disappointed, while another designer might have disappointed me last season, and wow me this season. With every new season, everyone gets a clean slate. I’m curious to see what the younger designers will come up with - Richard Chai, Brian Reyes, Thakoon. They will set tone for the season.

Do you think the industry is really “going green”?
Everyone is trying to be as aware as possible. It’s not just about finding a [green] designer. The whole industry has to change be more aware. How materials are being harvested, dyed, loomed… there are bigger issues than just the end product.

What advice would you give up-and-coming designers who are trying to get their pieces into stores?
The most important thing is to have an individual voice, and offer something new. Talk to the women! If you live in an idealized world and have no concept of how they live and work, you are not going to get far. And the bottom line is: you have to sell your clothes. You have to treat it as a business. Get a business partner. You can’t be the creative force and the business force – it’s too complicated. The creative side will get short changed. Also, get a partner with experience dealing with retailers.

Check back tomorrow for Michael Fink’s Top 8 Must-Have Fall Fashion pieces