Dress for the story that you’d like to have people know about you before you even open your mouth.

People around the world just want self-respect. They want to take care of themselves, they want to pay for their own bills, they want to take care of their families.

I have known that I wanted to be a designer since I was 8 years old.

I love the idea of women taking control of their money. It's something that many women are not familiar with, but it's crucial.

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.

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