Diane von Furstenberg is one of the most inspiring fashion designers in the industry. But it wasn’t an easy road to becoming the ultimate fashionista and feminist. As the daughter of a Holocaust survivor, she was taught that fear is never an option and put in serious work to build her style empire from scratch. The Belgian-born designer began crafting clothes in 1970, and hasn’t looked back since.
As for her personal life, it’s just as inspiring as you’d expect. While attending the University of Geneva in Switzerland, she met her first husband, Prince Egon zu Furstenberg. However, after learning royal life wasn’t for her, they amicably divorced after three years of marriage—but not before welcoming a son, Prince Alexandre von Furstenberg, and daughter, Princess Tatiana von Furstenberg. She’s since found love again and remarried longtime friend Barry Diller in 2001.
And then there’s her wrap dress (you know the one). The legendary garment, created by von Furstenberg when she was just 26 years old, was seen as a symbol of liberation in the ’70s. The inclusive fit and flattering style was exactly what the fashion industry needed, in a time where empowering women was so important.
To learn more about Diane von Furstenberg’s life and her career, check out these inspiring quotes from her.
