Donna Karan: The Queen of Seventh Avenue

Donna Karan is an American fashion designer who created the clothing label DKNY, which actually stands for Donna Karan New York. Karan was born on October 2, 1948. She attended the Parsons School of Design.

After college, Karan joined Anne Klein and eventually became the company’s head of the design team. She worked with Anne Klein until 1985 when she decided to create the Donna Karan label.

Karan was joined by her husband Stephan Weiss in building DKNY. Her mission was “to design modern clothes for modern people.” Karan launched her first clothing collection for women in 1985.

DKNY became known for its “Essentials” line. Initially, the line offered seven pieces that can easily be mixed and matched. Karan insisted that the clothing lines she will design and produce are those that she is willing to wear herself.

Karan earned the moniker “The Queen of Seventh Avenue” as her DKNY created affordable lines for younger women. After two years, DKNY started producing denim jeans. Karan also ventured to fragrances.