Roadtrip Nation was gracious enough to award me a grant to travel to New York City with a friend and interview the illustrious Diane von Furstenberg. Roadtrip Nation started as a journey amongst three friends to break free from the pressure they were feeling to conform to the traditional career paths that lay before them at a formative time in their lives. Now having grown into a movement, they have created a manifesto and empower youth to define their road in life based on what they’re truly passionate about.
We met with DVF in her design studio in New York’s Meatpacking District. Diane first entered the fashion world in 1972, and went on to sell millions of her signature wrap dresses and expand her company to a global luxury lifestyle brand including shoes, handbags, and jewelry. I wanted to hear her story first-hand on how she was able to come to a new country as an immigrant, build a successful business, and empower women through her fashion designs and philanthropic efforts.
She shared many stories and was honest about the hardships she faced in her journey. We got a glimpse into the motivation and values that drive her work forward, and I am thankful for the opportunity to have heard from this living legend. The same year we interviewed her (2005), Diane received the Lifetime Achievement Award from the Council of Fashion Designers of America (CFDA) for her impact on fashion.
- Granting Orgniazation: Roadtrip Nation
- Interview Subject: Diane von Furstenberg
- Students: Mala Srivatsa, Linsey Rab
