Tips for Dad from Tommy Hilfiger

What is the best advice that your dad has given you?

TH: Family is the most important thing in life.


Tommy with three of his four children. From left: Elizabeth, Rich, and Ally.

Courtesy of Tommy Hilfiger

What is the best gift that kids can give their dads this holiday?

TH: A drawing or story - the best gifts my kids have ever given me were homemade.

PictureQuest

What's the best look for Dad this summer?

TH: A chino or khaki short and a fun print. We have great lobster shorts and flip flops that I can't wear enough of.

Tommy Hilfiger Lobster Shorts, $59.99, available at Tommy Hilfiger Soho, 372 West Broadway, NYC, tel: 917.237.0983.

Courtesy of Tommy Hilfiger

What should every dad read?

TH: I should read every "How To" book ever written - that will teach me how to do everything in life!

Amazon.com

What do you think of Barack Obama's casual dad look?

TH: Barack Obama has that balance of sophisticated yet casual Americana in his dressing, which is what our brand is based on. I think it's a wonderful representation of their personalities and his family-driven focus.

Saul Loeb, AFP/Getty Images

Where should dads go to relax?

TH: I like to get together with friends - there is nothing like hearing other guys' stories to make you feel better.

One of Tommy's favorite places to hang out is the Gramercy Park Hotel's Rose Bar, at left.

Courtesy of the Gramercy Park Hotel

You're about to become a father for the fifth time; what is the best advice that you can give as a father?

TH: Spend time with them as much as possible- it's true when they say kids grow up in the blink of an eye.

Tommy Hilfiger Bear Cub Set, $42, available at Tommy.com

Courtesy of Tommy Hilfiger

What is your best memory with your dad?

TH: My father was a watchmaker, so being in his shop with him and watching him work was always a lot of fun.



Can you spot Tommy? The future designer with his parents and eight siblings in a family photo circa the 1950's.

Courtesy of Tommy Hilfiger

What surprises you most about being a dad?

TH: How funny kids can be - they are the best unintentional comedians I've seen.

Getty Images

How do you make the most of your time with kids when it is limited?

TH: I think getting away from all the daily distractions is key - we have some of the best memories from our house in Mustique where we can all relax together.

Tim Street-Porter