Adrienne Landau knows what it feels like to be a successful woman. Since her start some four decades ago, she has provided  the world with luxurious and headturning fur pieces. She is continuously seeking new ways to express her creativity not only through her designs, but also through other art forms.

What is one piece of advice that you would give someone who is at the start of their career?

Love it or leave it and always believe in yourself. Have passion, always enjoy the experience, and learn from everyone.

Who is your most admired cultural heroine? Why?

Iris Apfel. I love that she loves fashion and dresses up fabulously every single day. She doesn’t let her age define her and she is still sitting in the front row of every fashion show with all the “cool kids.” She is not afraid to express herself honestly. To me, she represents passion, style, curiosity.

What moment, in your career or personal life, are you most proud of?

For my Fall 2017 presentation, I felt that it was my entire career coming together in one moment. It was about celebrating diversity and  equality. I feel proud every time someone puts on one of my pieces and smiles and simply enjoys life.

Women’s roles in society have changed dramatically over the past several decades. How have these changes had a personal impact on you?

I think women today have more freedom to create their own lives. Back in the Eighties, I chose to give up the conventional woman’s role, having been encouraged by my mother to be independent and start my own business. She was very progressive and was a big influence for me. I hope to encourage other women to have conquering attitudes in this male-dominated world.

What future goals do you have for yourself?

I’m excited to express my creativity in new ways and love collaborating with other designers, artists and performers. I hope to work with people from all over the world and all backgrounds. I went back to my roots recently, and have continued painting. I am working on showing my work in a gallery very soon – linking my love for fine art and fashion.