In terms of design, it's true the world has an influence. But, as a designer, you have to protect yourself. You have to look at the world and then forget it.

The quote by Nicolas Ghesquière speaks to the balance that designers must strike between being influenced by the world around them and maintaining their own creative integrity. He acknowledges that the world has a significant impact on design, shaping trends, ideas, and aesthetics. However, he stresses that as a designer, it’s important to protect yourself from being overly influenced by external pressures or trends. Ghesquière’s advice is to observe the world, take it in, and then forget it—in other words, to step away from societal expectations and allow for originality and personal vision to flourish.

Nicolas Ghesquière, a renowned French fashion designer, is known for his innovative work at Louis Vuitton and his bold, forward-thinking approach to fashion design. His statement reflects a broader philosophy in the creative industry, where designers must navigate the tension between external influences and their own artistic direction. By advocating for designers to "forget" the world’s expectations, Ghesquière emphasizes the importance of authenticity and individual expression in design.

The phrase "look at the world and then forget it" also highlights the concept of inspiration—taking cues from life, culture, and the environment, but then filtering these influences through a personal lens to create something unique. This mindset allows designers to stay relevant while also pushing the boundaries of what is expected. It’s about creating work that reflects both the zeitgeist and the designer’s own vision.

Ultimately, Ghesquière’s quote encourages designers to remain true to their craft and instincts, despite the external pressures to conform. It’s a call for self-reliance in the creative process, urging designers to take inspiration from the world but also to trust their own abilities and ideas. This approach is key to creating work that feels fresh, original, and deeply personal.