I've been designing since I was 8. I started sketching dresses I could wear when skating. I was always involved in all aspects of skating, not just the technique, the choreography, the music, but the visual aspects, too - what I should wear.

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I see myself as a true modernist. Even when I do a traditional gown, I give it a modern twist. I go to the past for research. I need to know what came before so I can break the rules.

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They never ask the celebrities why they don't wear their own clothes on the red carpet.

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A woman is never sexier than when she is comfortable in her clothes.

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People get very trapped where they are. When they hear 'fashion' they get intimidated, particularly at the upper end because it's so elitist.

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I want people to see the dress, but focus on the woman.

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Service is a prerequisite for anything relating to luxury. That makes it (shopping) sensual and pleasurable.

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I see myself as an arbiter of taste.

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When I design a wedding dress with a bustle, it has to be one the bride can dance in. I love the idea that something is practical and still looks great.

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Fashion offers no greater challenge than finding what works for night without looking like you are wearing a costume.

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