My brother told me he was very proud of me, of the business I have built, and that gives me joy.

I am not really brand-conscious; I pick out clothes that appeal to me regardless of the label, but I consider my style very American.

Everyone thinks the fashion business is so glamorous. It's completely the opposite.

As I get older, I find that wearing bright colors cheers me up.

When I was young, about 18 or 19, I read all the Dostoyevsky novels, which made me want to go to St. Petersburg. So I went, and I was so inspired.

Time flies so quick. I remember my second year in business when Bullocks Wilshire did a whole window of my white dresses. I was so excited, I went there at night and took pictures.