We get all sorts of solicitous emails, hate mail, love letters, and uncategorizable insanity from our VMAN readers. Every so often, we like to remember that we were once fashion-obsessed teenagers, dreaming of writing for any number of now-shuttered publications that continue to inspire us. So when we received an email from Michael Breton, senior at Bishop McNamara High School outside of Washington, D.C.—and style editor of his school’s newspaper, The Stampede—we couldn’t help but feel the tugs of nostalgia and sentimentality pulling at our heartstrings. Breton had taken it upon himself to interview Tara Ferry, the 21-year-old son of music legend Bryan Ferry and face of Burberry’s Spring/Summer 2011 campaign, who’s also the drummer for the band Rubbber Kiss Goodbye. Maybe it’s the holiday spirit. Maybe we’re trying to relive our youth. Maybe it’s the fact that it’s a pretty good interview. Or maybe it’s the fact that we’re pretty sure this class of high school seniors are likely to someday rule the virtual world in which we’ll likely find ourselves incarcerated, so we might as well get on their good sides. No matter! Take it away, young Mr. Breton.
MICHAEL BRETON As a face of Burberry and something of a muse for Christopher Bailey, how did this collaboration start? What do you like about the fashion world?
TARA FERRY I first met Christopher in 2006. He is an amazing talent and also an incredibly nice person. His Burberry designs have character and are always edgy. I love clothes, but I’m not sure I love the fashion world. From what I see, its a rough, cutthroat industry—you have to be thick-skinned to survive. I think thats what makes it attractive in the first place!
MB Who is the most interesting person you’ve met so far? Why?
TF Isabella Blow, sadly not with us anymore. She was a great friend of mine and was very influential in the fashion industry. She discovered the designer Alexander McQueen.
MB What is your favorite place to be? Why?
TF My favourite place in the world is the English countryside, especially the Southwest. It has a very unique, rich beauty. There’s a certain mystique about it. The air is fresh. It’s the one place on earth I can find real peace and quiet, total tranquility. I like to go there and play with my dogs!
MB What is your ambition?
TF I love being creative. I like to explore my own ideas and try to make something from them. I think people often limit themselves from trying new things, playing victim to their own negativity. I believe we don’t know ourselves well enough to say we can’t do something. I’m working on so many different projects in different fields of work, and I think this variety in life is very healthy.
MB What makes a man and a good life?
TF Good manners make a man. A good life is to be happy and be at peace.
MB What inspires you when it comes to your music, your photography, and your personal style?
TF My dad is the biggest inspiration in my life. I take everything from him!
MB What is your favorite film?
TF My favorite film so far is The Shawshank Redemption. It’s a really powerful film and gets me every time I watch it. I also love all of Alfred Hitchcock’s films.
MB Do you have any concerts coming up in the U.S.?
TF In 2012 I will be gigging in the U.S. with my band, Rubber Kiss Goodbye.
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