Donna Karan

Nobody understands the needs of working girls like Donna Karan. Her collections are built on a straight-from-the-office-to-the-cocktail-party philosophy. Sleek and practical basics are mixed with glamorous and feminine pieces. After her studies at Parsons School of Design, Karan got a job at Anne Klein where she worked her way up to become head designer in 1974. Ten years later, she launched her own collection that became instantly successful. After expanding her business into sportswear, beauty products and home furnishings, Donna Karan is setting her sights on the global luxury market. In 2001, Donna Karan sold her company to LVMH for $643 million where she continues on as chief creative director.

"You have to be a very good designer today. Just a label doesn't make it. This is not about putting a logo on a T-shirt."