I had no confidence at school. I was not a good student and I really thought I was pretty stupid. Just dumb.

But I think, if you're in the spotlight, people are going to say bad things, and that's just the way it is.

Consumers around the world always want something unexpected and exciting, and that's what drives me. I love the challenge of reinterpreting my designs in new ways each season to keep the "prep look" modern and fresh.

Winning a trophy is always nice, but my personal satisfaction comes from reflecting on the passion, motivation, and determination that went into getting me there.

American style is about confidence, independence, diversity and free expression.

I had eight brothers and sisters. Every Christmas my younger brother Bobby would wake up extra early and open everybody's presents - everybody's - so by the time the rest of us got up, all the gifts were shredded, ribbons off, torn open and thrown aside.

I try not to have regrets and to learn from every experience.