I was schooled at home, then didn't go to university because I married when I was 17. I didn't go into work until late in my life.

I am very shy. When I go to a charity ball, I don't mind if people look at my sleeves. I mind terribly if I have to say something.

I think a sense of humor is the most important thing anyone can have.

I love books; my suitcases are always full of them. Books and shoes. I read when I am sad, when I am happy, when I am nervous. My favourite British author is Jane Austen, and my favourite American one is John O'Hara.

For me, fashion begins in New York.

If you ask me to sew a button, I don't know how to do it! The idea of the whole collection and how you want to build your brand is all about working with the right people. And luck!

Something you wore three months ago, maybe you don't wear it again. I am a great believer that if something looks very good on you, you can wear it again, and it's not the end of the world.