FREDDIE LEIBA: You have been a role model for women, inspiring and empowering them with your philanthropic work. Who was your inspiration?

DONNA KARAN: I’ve had so many. Philanthropically I was greatly inspired by three larger-than-life men: my husband Stephan, whose illness made me realize that care was missing in healthcare; President Clinton, who had the strength and conviction to create the Clinton Global Initiative; and His Holiness the Dalai Lama – I’m in awe of his spirit and light, and his passion for preserving his culture.

FL: You address working women’s wardrobe needs with Seven Easy Pieces. Was that created for your own personal lifestyle?

DK: Absolutely. As an urban woman juggling so many roles – designer, executive, wife, mother – I wanted a system of sophisticated pieces that I could mix and match into an entire day-into-night wardrobe. So often I found myself traveling for work with one suitcase and wanted to have a handful of pieces that would look great no matter what the day threw at me. I always say you don’t need more pieces, just the right ones. My original Seven Easy Pieces were cut in seasonless jersey, ready to go anywhere in the world. I try to offer a version of them with every season I design.

FL: You created Urban Zen to continue the legacy of your late husband, Stephan Weiss, who was an artist. Can you tell us more about the magic of keeping his legacy alive?

DK: Urban Zen is something I was born to do. I consider it mine and Stephan’s legacy, as so much has been done in his honor and spirit. The Urban Zen Center was his art studio, so I feel his presence everyday. It’s a part of me, just like he is. We’ve used the Center for so many good causes, from our Wellness Forums to various art exhibits, including one of Stephan’s work. We created the Stephan Weiss Apple Awards to honor heroes who have made a difference in our three areas of interest: preservation of culture, integrative wellness and empowering children through education. Urban Zen is where the past (culture), present (health) and future (education) come together.

FL: You’re approachable and centered. Is this influenced by yoga and Buddhism?

DK: Thank you. My personality is who I am. I became famous at a young age and never felt the need to pretend to be someone I’m not. I try to stay centered, but it’s a balancing act of giving to others and trying to take time for myself. My daily yoga practice is essential to my well-being, as is traveling every chance I get.