I would like better to be known as the Godfather of Fashion, with all the implications that that word has.

When I was a boy, I thought scent was contained in dewdrops on flowers and if I got up very early in the morning, I could collect it and make perfume.

I come from a very warm island, where colors are very important, very vibrant, and obviously the color has been an influence on my work.

The only realities in life are that you are born, and that you die. We always think we are going to live forever. The dying aspect we will never accept. The one thing about having this kind of warning is how you appreciate every single day of life.

Regardless of how good or bad a collection might be, it's a letdown after the show is over. It's done. Something you've worked on for months is just over.

Today, there is no fashion, really. There are just... choices. Women dress today to reveal their personalities. They used to reveal the designer's personality. Until the 70s, women listened to designers. Now women want to do it their own way. There are no boundaries. And without boundaries, there is no fashion.

I always design my own hats to complete my fashion thought....I like them slightly mad, like this huge black poppy. Right now I lift the bosom high on coats and dresses...I am using so many high curved belts.