Never underestimate the impact of a small act.

My company is an extension of me, so when I designed my stores I wanted people to feel that they were in my home.

Sometimes women entrepreneurs are their own challenge, [in terms of] believing in themselves. There is no need to apologise for being ambitious.

I grew up on a farm in Pennsylvania, where my parents raised German shepherds - we had about 30 dogs at any given time.

The inspiration starts with the armor my parents collected. The references are subtle, whether in the mix of textures (woven, quilted, pleated) or in the tapestry brocades and florals. The focus is on clean, strong silhouettes with bold embellishments. Accessories reflect the mood - belts with chain details, lace-up ghillie heels and muffs.

Remember: if the most unique ideas were obvious to everyone, there wouldn’t be entrepreneurs. The one thing that every entrepreneurial journey has in common is that there are many, many steps on the road to success.

I just like easy clothes - comfort.