I enjoyed studying costume, learning about the corsetry and the historical context of fashion. I never had any real intention of being a costume designer.

One of my most sentimental items is my grandmother's engagement ring that my mom gave me a few years ago. It's a Victorian-style setting that's closed in the back, so it doesn't sparkle the way diamonds do now. I wear it as a pendant.

I think it's very empowering to be able to have a career and to be a mother. It gives you an amazing sense of self.

New York is very career-orientated and it's hard to take time off here, but that is great for building a business.