If people want to change, they will. If they don't want to, it's hard to make them do so. The current interest in the environment is a good thing. The best way to make a contribution in fashion is to promote the idea that a fundamental interest in preserving the environment is itself fashionable.

There are so many things to take into account - your ambition, your ego, the press, the consumers. You can never be sure that you'll be on top of the pile again.

I was an observer. I liked to listen rather than openly express myself. This trait is something that I've retained over the years.

Retailing has become fiercely competitive. Today there are many large global fashion companies who have opened up mono-brand stores in major cities around the world. When I first opened my boutique in New York, in 1985, there were almost no other European luxury brands present with their own stores. Now Fifth Avenue is packed with huge stores from major Italian and French labels.

My philosophy has always been to help women and men feel comfortable and confident through the clothes they wear.

I think that everyone has the right to fall in love at any age. But in life you have to learn how to control your emotions. You must know self-discipline.

From the elitism of luxury to the democracy of beauty.