The Queens, New York-born designer so loved the field, that as an elementary school student, she was already selling her designs at a local boutique.
That drive took her to the renowned Parsons School of Design in New York City, where she eventually dropped out to join the design team at Ann Klein.
The gifted designer stayed at the company until 1985, when she launched her eponymous label.
It was an instant success with editors, celebrities and socialites alike.
Twenty years later, Karan’s line is still going strong as a new generation of celebs love her simple, easy chic — which fits, flatters and celebrates all women.