Michael Kors has spoken out about his preference for using diverse models on the catwalk, as opposed to lookalike women who resemble 'mannequins'.
The New York-based fashion designer, 54, told Vogue.co.uk: 'It's so much more interesting if we have different ages, ethnicities, body types, heights. . . if I see mannequin-like models, I'm bored.'
He added that the trait he looks for most in a model is 'an expressive smile. I want to see them bring their own personality,' he said.
Variety: Michael Kors has spoken out about his penchant for diversity on the catwalk: 'It's so much more interesting if we have different ages, ethnicities, body types, heights. If I see mannequin-like models, I'm bored'
Mr Kors, who was born in Long Island, New York, explained that he likes women 'who can be chameleons' to wear his designs, which he showcased at New York Fashion Week earlier this month.
Indeed, the models at his latest show included 34-year-old redhead Karen Elson, from the UK, platinum blonde Czech supermodel Karolina Kurkova, 29, and gap-toothed American It-model Lindsey Wexson, 19.
Apparently true to his word, Asian, African American and Caucasian models all walked the Michael Kors runway in unison.
But while the models certainly varied in age, hair color and skin tone, they appeared virtually the same in body size, with their long, slender legs and statuesque builds.
Versatile: Mr Kors, 54, explained that he likes women 'who can be chameleons' to wear his designs, which he showcased at New York Fashion Week earlier this month (pictured)
Age range: Indeed, the models at his latest show included platinum blonde Czech supermodel Karolina Kurkova, 29 (left) and gap-toothed American It-model Lindsey Wexson, 19 (right)
Perhaps Mr Kors includes a mixture of older and younger catwalkers on his runway to appeal to his fan base, which includes Michelle Obama.
But while the designer has officially caught the attention of the president's wife, it's a different nationality of women that has caught his eye.The First Lady has frequently worn his designs since her entry into the White House, and she even posed for her official portrait wearing a sleeveless Michael Kors shift.
'I don't know why, but I seem to have this Estonian obsession,' the designer confessed.
Lady in red: Michelle Obama has frequently worn his designs, including a stunning red number at the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation's dinner on September 18, 2010
Eye for Estonia: 'I don't know why, but I seem to have this Estonian obsession,' the designer confessed, citing Carmen Kass (left), Karmen Pedaru (middle) and Elisabeth Erm as his favorites
'Karmen Pedaru is from Estonia, Carmen Kass is Estonian, and there's a new girl called Elisabeth Erm and she's also Estonian. I think they're feminine, sexy and strong all at the same time.'
Despite Mr Kors' assertion that he likes diverse models, one can't help but notice the striking similarity between these three women.
Mr Kors has previously asserted that he turns to specific - and very diverse - women as inspiration for his three different perfumes, Sexy, Sporty and Glam.
Athletic blondes Blake Lively and Gwyneth Paltrow embody his 'sporty' fragrance, Jennifer Lopez is the muse for his 'glam' perfume, and Rihanna and Angelina Jolie personify the 'sexy' woman for him.