Michael Kors has survived the recession so far because his clothes are “seasonless.”

The American fashion designer believes sales of his clothing line have not faltered during the credit crunch because he has always worked hard to make sure his designs don’t become out-of-date.

“What has happened with the economy has re-enforced the things that I always thought. The idea that something should be unexpected but at the same time timeless, the fact that I think that most clothes should be seasonless. Things have to be versatile.”

However, Michael - who became a household name after appearing on fashion program Project Runway and whose celebrity fans include Michael Douglas - admits those wealthy enough to splash out on designer clothing must make sure they don’t look “obnoxious.”

“It is appropriate to look rich, if you do it without looking obnoxious. If you’re wearing something colorful, keep the line simple. If you’re wearing something ornamented, keep the shape sleek. Right now, to have over-the-top hair and a beaded dress and an over-the-top shoe and a lot of jewelery all at once, it’s too much.”