I am always on the hunt for pieces–whether it’s clothing, jewelry or other accessories, that feel truly special. If it’s custom, even better. When I discovered Michelle Boor’s line, Micky Paris, of custom-tailored shirts made in Paris in collaboration with Daniel Levy, the cutest classic men’s tailor, I was immediately intrigued. Then Michelle came to New York (she’s an American expat) over the summer and we met up at Ralph’s Coffee. Not only was she chic as hell, but her bespoke shirts were incredible. They made me giddy–the attention to detail, the weight of the fabric, the stitching, that you could get your initials embroidered. Plus, we both strongly believe in fewer, better things and creating lasting designs that are tailored (literally in this case) to the client; we got each other.
I immediately knew I wanted her military shirt in khaki (what we call army green). Michelle and I got on Zoom when she was back in Paris and she walked me through how to fill out the detailed measurement request. (To inquire, you can DM Michelle, email her michelle.boor@gmail.com, or call the Paris boutique +33 6 70 52 68 39.) I sent it off and then weeks later I had the most perfect shirt. It’s substantial enough to be worn as a shacket. But most importantly, it feels uniquely mine, and very YSL (original Yves days). The shirts come in solids, stripes, tuxedo versions and shirt dresses. Next, I might need a white military…definitely a tuxedo and next summer, a shirt dress. If you’ve ever dreamed of having a custom shirt, it’s worth the $500 (for the classic), and Michelle is happy to help you with the process. Hopefully, she will come to NYC again soon for a trunk show. In the meantime, Michelle answers some TFI questions.
What is your career background?
New York, F.I.T, Head Design @ Theory, Paris summer intern with Alber Elbaz @ Guy Laroche, staying & working in Paris, mainly at Apostrophe/Georges Rech……. Creative Director. Today Micky! With Daniel Levy.
What led you to create Micky Paris?
After a weekend in Amsterdam with my partner, he observed that after countless numbers of boutiques shopping, I could not find anything that pleased me, he said to me ‘’create it!’’
What makes your shirt different from others?
The cut is 100% original. I call it the ‘’Micky Style.’’ Slightly oversized in just the right places, it has the allure of wearing a man’s shirt, but it’s tailored for a women’s body, with a sleeve engineered to flip up without falling.
The choice of fabrics–colors & stripes, the XXL cuffs, X-tra long in the body & sleeves. Stand collar, 1 pocket, 1 large back pleat = the Micky Style! And the personal experience of bespoke.
Why bespoke?
After 20 years in ready-to-wear, and living through Covid, I am convinced this is the future of fashion. No stock, high quality = Less is More, Simple. The personalization of your shirt, i.e. initials, etc, and lastly the personal contact with all my & Daniel’s clients.
What do you want a woman to feel when she puts your designs?
Instantly chic! Unique, Powerful & Unstoppable!
Favorite pieces to wear this fall:
My Micky x Daniel dark denim western -shirt, which i just developed, also My Micky Classic in a light weight woven cashmere, in light beige, also new this season! Also developing a tunic military style in the brushed cotton, excited to wear this over a chic trouser, favorite are my Victoria Beckam’s. And my double-face cashmere Hermes stole.
Michelle’s 10 Fall Essentials:
1. A well-cut mens inspired blazer in wool. I have developed one (made-to-measure) with Daniel [see below]. This season, I am favoring a houndstooth pattern/weave, or a solid wool in dark gray or navy. Saint Laurent and D Squared, cut a great blazer.
2. Riding boots. My favorite are the Hermes Jumping. The Celine or Gucci are equally as desirable, but the Hermes are the most timeless.
3. Uniqlo cashmere sweaters, in a number of colors , one for each day. The quality is perfect; I machine wash mine.
4. At least one great wool or cashmere coat. This is where I don’t cut quality. Owning an elegant, well-made coat is important. You can mix it with anything and you will have a complete, chic look. My favorites are Celine, I have a preference for Phoebe’s designs, I also like Acne Studios and Max Mara.
5. My Celine high-waisted jeans with side gold hardware detail.
6. The perfect shirt: the Micky x Daniel in white classic poplin cotton!
7. One day I dream to own a gold made-to-order chainlink necklace from Jennifer Alfano! xoxo
8. Hermes Kelly bag in black.
9. Gucci x Adidas collab sneaker.
10. Toteme baseball cap in beige.
What inspires you?
Like most creative people traveling, the ‘’street’’, music, my past; everything is inspiring when you observe.
Three words that describe your work: Simplistic, Functional, Chic.
Three words that describe you: Creative, Curious, Enthusiastic.
One of your attributes that helps you succeed: Determination.
Role model: My Dad.
Best career advice you received: Whatever you choose to do in life, be the best at it.
This is really good – and how I like to dress every day. Classic, simple, and chic.