I studied at a university in Florence and finished my degree. My mother was very strict about this recipe: You need to get your degree.

I think men know to seduce women though words and conversation and nice gestures. That's much sexier than when a man uses muscle.

Some say the economy means that you have to persuade people to invest in clothes - to buy less things but more expensive things. I disagree - invest in jewelry, or a house, maybe, but not in fashion.

I have worked with wool all my life as a designer. There's so much more to it than knitwear - it's an amazingly versatile material and can be used in so many different ways from chic to rustic.

When I meet celebrities, I have to know what they are like and only then can I design. The clothes have to fit their personality.

I do think that exercise is important, not only to keep you in shape but also for your state of mind. However, I am not fanatical about it.

I always wear high heels - I simply feel naked without them.