Fashion can make you feel powerful and confident by embracing your individual style and being true to oneself.
Aging should be seen as a continuation of life, where one embraces their age while living every day to the fullest.
Leadership starts with owning oneself, embracing imperfections, and maintaining self-reliance and independence.
Deep dives
The Power of a Look and the Influence of Fashion
Diane von Furstenberg, an iconic figure in the fashion industry, shares how fashion can make you feel powerful and confident. She discusses the impact of her famous wrap dress, which empowered women to embrace their bodies and feel comfortable. Von Furstenberg highlights that embracing one's individual style and being true to oneself is crucial. She also emphasizes the importance of finding what accentuates one's features and represents their personality.
Embracing Aging as a Proof of Living
Von Furstenberg challenges traditional notions of aging by reframing it as living. She redefines aging as a continuation of life and emphasizes the importance of living every day to the fullest. She shares her personal experience of feeling fulfilled and grateful for her rich life, stating that she would not want to be any younger. Von Furstenberg believes that aging should be seen as a proof of having lived and encourages others to embrace their age while being true to themselves.
The Journey of Becoming a Confident Leader
Von Furstenberg shares her perspective on leadership, stating that she prefers to inspire rather than lead. She believes that being in charge starts with owning oneself and being committed to personal growth. Von Furstenberg encourages others to own their imperfections and vulnerability, as these can be transformed into strengths. She views leadership as a relationship with oneself and believes that maintaining self-reliance and independence is essential.
The Legacy of André Leon Talley and Embracing Endings
Von Furstenberg reflects on the passing of her friend, André Leon Talley, and highlights the impact of his life and work. She believes that endings do not truly exist, but rather represent an evolution. Von Furstenberg shares how endings can bring about recognition and celebrate one's legacy. She believes that life's journey continues even after death.
Manifesting Dreams and Embracing the Light
Von Furstenberg expresses her vision for the future and her desire to make a positive impact in the world. She shares her belief in the power of manifestation and the importance of using one's voice, knowledge, and resources to create positive change. Von Furstenberg sees Venice as a place where ideas and debates can flourish and envisions it as a unique think tank. She encourages others to find their own visions and contribute to making the world a better place.
Today on Wiser Than Me, Julia sits down with 76-year-old fashion icon Diane von Furstenberg. In this conversation, Diane tells Julia why she’s always looked forward to getting older, the one piece of clothing she thinks every woman should have in her closet, and how she says her mother made her fearless. Plus, Julia and her mom Judith debate a questionable fashion choice Julia nearly made.
