Fashion Week: Q&A with Diane Von Furstenberg

Happy Valentine’s Day, Zoe Reporters! My valentine to you is the next chapter in my Fashion Week Q&A series, which features yet another sartorial genius, Diane Von Furstenberg. Having just presented her latest collection for Fall/Winter 2011 in New York yesterday—I DIE for all of it—the timing couldn’t be more perfect. Between her glamorous empire—which consists of clothes, accessories and a newly-launched home collection—and influential persona, DVF is truly an inspiration to us all and it was an absolute honor to interview her. Absorb yourself in her infinite wisdom below, then share the love with a friend! xoRZ.

RZ: For as long as the fashion world can remember, you have been the ultimate figure of empowerment for women everywhere with your eponymous line, Diane Von Furstenberg. Growing up, who were the people who inspired you? DVF: My mother was and has been the most influential inspiration in my life, mostly because she taught me that ‘fear is not an option’.

RZ: What started with your first iconic wrap dress in the ’70s is now a global luxury line…in your own words, how has the DVF woman changed from then to now? Where do you see her going next? DVF: The DVF woman has always been very individual. She’s always in the driver’s seat…active, seductive, and above all confident. When I first started my career it was the time of women’s liberation…all was ahead of us!! But women are women and somehow not much has changed.

RZ: How do you prepare for the insanity that is New York Fashion Week? What is your favorite part? DVF: I usually prepare by doing a lot of yoga. Fashion shows are so useful because they force you to edit and to present a collection in a concise way. It’s a presentation to the press and to the stores that sell your clothes…it is so exciting!!!

RZ: Tell me something that you are coveting for spring! DVF: The ‘Harper‘ is our new bag shape for Spring…I love it!!! It’s extremely versatile and comes in a variety of colors! It just became available on DVF.com.

RZ: I have personally looked up to you throughout my entire career, and now many of my Zoe Report readers do too. What advice would you give to any of them who are planning for a profession in the fashion industry? DVF: Be confident!! The industry is growing and new, young talent is emerging, but fashion will always remain a mysterious thing…it reflects the contemporary period you live in, the mood of the time, the way people want to project themselves, it’s ever-evolving…

P.S. The event you have all been waiting for is finally here, the Barneys New York Warehouse Sale in LA! From now ’til February 21st, shop the sale for 50-75% off dream designer pieces. Ba-na-nas!