Donna Karan

About

Donna Karan is a renowned American fashion designer, best known for creating the Donna Karan New York and DKNY clothing labels. Born on October 2, 1948, in Forest Hills, New York, Karan was raised in a family deeply involved in fashion. Her mother was a model, and her father was a tailor. This early exposure led her to study at the Parsons School of Design, where she interned with Anne Klein. After Klein's death, Karan became the head designer at 26. Karan's career took a significant turn in 1984 when she launched her eponymous brand. Her debut collection, the "Seven Easy Pieces," revolutionized women's fashion by offering versatile, practical garments. This system of dressing allowed women to easily transition from day to evening. In 1988, she introduced DKNY, a more affordable line inspired by New York's energy. Karan has received numerous awards for her contributions to fashion, including the CFDA Lifetime Achievement Award. She stepped down from her label in 2015 to focus on Urban Zen, a lifestyle brand emphasizing cultural preservation and wellness.