What Would Mariah Carey Do?

Advice on life, love and celebrating from the superstar musician and self styled “Queen of Christmas.”

Vogue Magazine
Magazine Scans
Vogue (US) December 2019. Text by Timothy Harrison.

What is your earliest memory of Christmas?
Sitting on Santa's lap.

If you could tell your 20-year-old self one thing, what would it be?
Stick up for yourself.

When it comes to festive decorations, what's the most over-the-top you have gone?
A 20ft Christmas tree.

How do I know when I'm in love?
When you don't put yourself first.

What's the best cure for a hangover?
Hair of the dog!

Where should I look for creative inspiration?
Creativity comes to you. Allow yourself to be inspired by anything and everything.

What do you look for in a great fashion buy?
Timelessness.

Which up-and-coming singer should I listen to?
Lizzo.

What's the hardest-won lesson you've learned about money?
Never sign anything without knowing what it is.

Who do you invite round for Christmas?
My extended family.

Where should I head to get some winter sun at this time of year?
Wherever you feel the most carefree.

You inherited a vintage Porsche from your father…
Yes, I did. It was his prize possession. I restored it the way he would have wanted. I love it.

When did you last take it for a spin?
I can't drive it, because it's a stick shift and I'm not that co-ordinated. But we did feature it in the video for “#Beautiful,” my song with Miguel.

Where's the best place to buy clothes, and why?
Paris, because nothing compares.

What's a sure-fire way to overcome stage fright?
You tell me! I'm still fighting it.

What's the best gift you've ever received?
Music.

And the best you've given?
Music.

If you had to play a Christmas album that wasn't your own, which would you play?
One by Nat King Cole.

What beauty secrets do you swear by?
Sleep and sunblock.

Which winter accessory can you not live without?
Warm PJs, or a Christmas onesie.