I'm a big proponent of young women dressing appropriately in the workplace to get ahead. We need to demand respect as women, and part of that involves how we present ourselves.

I can't design anything unless I'm excited by it, meaning I have an urge to wear it.

Give yourself time to work on your dream. If you want to start a stationery company or if you want to start an Internet site... Whatever it is, pick the thing that you love, and allot the time, but know and value the downtime as well.

If you can, start your own business while you're working another job so that your bills get paid. Choose something that you love, so that when you're exhausted when you come home from work, you're actually looking forward to your 3 hours every night that you can apply to your business, either after your kids go to sleep or while they're watching TV or while they're doing their homework, however you can budget your time. Instead of a chore, choose something you love so you absolutely look forward to it.

My greatest peace is at the ocean, which was part of my decision to move out of Manhattan. A real treat is a trip to the beach. One of my favorites is Capri, and I love Mexico, but no matter where it is, it's really difficult to be in a bad mood when you're sitting on the sand, listening to the ocean.

My biggest influences are strong, creative women that chart their own path, lead their own lives and drive the course of history.

When I go out and I'm presenting the best side of myself, I want to look different from everyone, but I don't want it to look like I'm wearing a costume.