Diane von Furstenberg, the iconic designer renowned for her revolutionary wrap dress and a notable figure in the fashion industry, recently opened up about her life, career, and values during an interview. Situated in her office located in the Meatpacking District of New York City, von Furstenberg reflects on her impressive journey, along with the unique gift bags she presents to visitors, which are filled with her own written works ranging from memoirs to self-help guides.
Having arrived in New York in 1969, the daughter of a Holocaust survivor made a significant impact on the fashion world just a few years later with the introduction of the wrap dress in 1973. This design not only redefined women’s fashion but also contributed to making stylish clothing more accessible, leading to impressive sales where she produced up to 25,000 wrap dresses a week. Acknowledging her status as a socialite, her early life also included high-profile connections, evident in stories of hosting parties that featured emerging figures such as Madonna.
At 78 years old, von Furstenberg continues to be a force in fashion, recently honoring an invitation to accept the PAC NYC Icon of Culture award at a gala hosted by former Mayor Michael Bloomberg. Although she initially expressed reluctance toward awards, she agreed to participate, under the condition that the event included a comedic roast of her, highlighting her preference for humor over solemnity.
Reflecting on her long career, Diane expresses gratitude and humility, noting that being labeled as an “icon” simply reflects her longevity and experiences rather than an explicit cultural impact. Yet, she acknowledges the shifts in the industry, having taken back control of her brand from a Chinese company to focus on fostering kindness and connection. With a firm belief in the power of kindness, she aims to use her remaining years to uplift others by creating meaningful connections.
Diane’s personal story intertwines with her public persona. Her marriage to Hollywood mogul Barry Diller is described as a profound partnership, one that continues to thrive despite societal norms surrounding relationships. She also speaks candidly about her support for Diller during his coming out journey, emphasizing that, in her view, such aspects of life are merely parts of a larger narrative.
As she looks to the future, von Furstenberg’s vision for her brand revolves around empowering women, emphasizing that her clothing speaks to the independent, confident woman in charge. With plans for the continued evolution of her brand and personal pursuits, she aims to inspire and foster connections, maintaining that the journey is as crucial as the destination.
Diane von Furstenberg continues to be a source of wisdom and inspiration, reminding us that a life dedicated to kindness and the empowerment of others can leave a lasting legacy, both in the fashion world and beyond.