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Diane von Furstenberg: reflections from her vibrant office
Diane von Furstenberg’s office, located in the dynamic Meatpacking District, showcases her remarkable journey in the fashion industry. Instead of typical clothing samples, visitors often receive a selection of books that narrate her life’s story.
During our discussion, von Furstenberg skillfully intertwines personal anecdotes with her notable career, occasionally calling on her assistant to fetch various publications that detail her experiences.
Included among these are a self-help book titled Own It: The Secret to Life, a visually impressive coffee-table book named Diane von Furstenberg: Woman Before Fashion, and a delightful Italian novelty book, Serenissima: Solution & Seduction. Notably, there is also a book dedicated to the Statue of Liberty, which she proudly refers to as its “godmother,” a title she humorously prefers over the more conventional role of board member.
A fashion icon and a cultural force
In her acclaimed memoir, The Woman I Wanted to Be, Diane von Furstenberg shares her compelling journey as the daughter of a Holocaust survivor. After a vibrant youth filled with travel across Europe, she arrived in New York City in 1969.
It was here, at the center of the fashion world, that she introduced the iconic wrap dress in 1973, transforming women’s fashion forever. Even before her arrival, she was regarded as a socialite, married to Prince Egon von Fürstenberg, quickly becoming a prominent figure in New York’s elite social scene.
Embracing reinvention
As a self-made millionaire, Diane von Furstenberg has pursued her ambitions through notable real estate investments, including a luxurious apartment on Park Avenue and a picturesque farm in Connecticut. Her second marriage to media mogul Barry Diller in 2001 represented a significant shift in her life, establishing her as part of a powerful couple in New York.
Today, von Furstenberg balances her professional commitments in New York with leisure time in Venice and at her beloved Cloudwalk farm.
“Venice is a woman,” she muses, inspired by a biography she read. This playful personification highlights her ongoing exploration of femininity and strength, themes that resonate throughout her work and personal philosophy.
The essence of empowerment and kindness
Diane von Furstenberg continues to inspire at 78
At 78, Diane von Furstenberg remains an influential voice in discussions surrounding feminism and empowerment. Her family affectionately describes her as an “oracle or a goat,” with the latter term reflecting her adventurous spirit. “I climb,” she explains, highlighting her continual pursuit of growth and understanding.
Recently, von Furstenberg accepted the Perelman Performing Arts Center NYC Icon of Culture award, but with a unique request. Known for her reluctance to embrace accolades, she insisted that the event include humor to ensure an engaging atmosphere. “If it’s not funny, it’s awkward,” she states, illustrating her dedication to maintaining a light-hearted experience.
Reflections on her impact
Reflecting on a fashion legacy
As the discussion unfolds, Diane von Furstenberg considers her impact on the fashion industry. While she maintains a sense of humility, she recognizes that her iconic wrap dress fundamentally altered the narrative for women. “I would drive through the city counting the dresses I saw,” she recalls. “At one point, I was producing 25,000 each week, and every woman in America had at least one.”
By democratizing fashion, von Furstenberg’s designs empowered women to feel beautiful and confident, breaking down the elitism often linked with high fashion. Her partnerships with platforms like QVC expanded her influence, making her designs accessible to a wider audience. “I introduced Marc Jacobs and Karl Lagerfeld to QVC,” she notes, emphasizing the playful spirit that has defined her career.
Despite her modesty regarding her achievements, Diane von Furstenberg maintains notable connections with cultural icons like Andy Warhol. She describes Warhol as “a voyeur,” highlighting his tendency to focus more on others than himself. This characteristic ultimately contributed to his legacy as an iconic figure.
The importance of kindness
In her reflections, von Furstenberg underscores the power of kindness. She asserts, “It’s a currency that compounds,” emphasizing that kindness is not only a virtue but also a transformative force. She has crafted a personal manifesto that prioritizes connection, believing that each day offers a chance to create a miracle by linking individuals who can significantly impact one another’s lives.
Fashion icon Diane von Furstenberg encourages young women
Diane von Furstenberg’s advice to young women is clear: “Be the woman you want to be — and smile.” This statement reflects her belief in the importance of body language and self-presentation. She encourages women to embrace their individuality and confidence.
Von Furstenberg’s journey from young immigrant to fashion powerhouse illustrates her resilience and passion. She has transformed her own life and the lives of countless women through her designs and philosophies. As she continues to share her insights and experiences, her legacy as a cultural icon remains strong, inspiring future generations to pursue their paths with confidence and kindness.
