Looks from the Resort 2013 collection. (Photo: Style.com)

How has it been received?
It has been amazing. We have great retailers like Shopbop, Bergdorfs and other small independent retailers.

What were some obstacles you faced in the early days?
Really just building my team. As you grow, you really have to find people who you can rely on and who believe in what you’re doing. In the past twelve months we have grown so much, but I’ve tried to never get desperate to fill a position. It needs to be the right person, and when they come along you jump on them! Now we have 8 people.

Did you have industry connections over here? How did you get out there?
No, not really. I just really put myself out there. Naivety and youth are the best and worst things! I didn’t have rejection issues, because I hadn’t had much of it yet. I was so enthusiastic and not yet jaded. I still get wildly excited about everything, like yesterday doing a shoot for Marie Claire. I am grateful for everything. I believe that only hard work gets you much more than connections. Hard work makes for a long career.

Do you have muses?
I am inspired by this woman who is very confident and elegant, but she is ageless. It is hard for me to put a face on this woman. I love the Queen as much as a 20-year old girl on the street.

Who would you love to dress?
I wish that Grace Kelly was still around—I’d love to dress her. She was so regal and elegant.

How does your elegant aesthetic play into your designs?
It’s about being put together. I think you don’t want to care too much about how you look, because who has the time? That’s why I like to create pieces that are easy and comfortable silhouettes. The clothes never wear you. It’s all about the details, like a lace trim. I think it is nice to care about how you look.

How is your multicultural background an influence?