Immigrants have been responsible for the fabric of our fashion industry and they continue to be instrumental to it. To celebrate Immigrant Heritage Month, we spoke with Naeem Khan, who left his native India for the U.S. in 1979 and worked for the legendary Halston before launching his own fashion house with much success.

Why did you decide to establish yourself in the U.S?

Growing up in India, I was such a huge music and fashion fan, and I loved America. It was the land of my dreams.  I was still very young when the Kennedys came to visit India, but I remember how elegant they were and how they embraced India. My family loved Jackie.  To us, America was the land of this amazing president and his wife, and of music and fashion.  In India, you defied your government at the time. [Then-Prime Minister] Indira Ghandi had imposed martial law. Watching America during the time Vietnam was so inspiring to us…in the way people loved their freedom, had a voice, and could say things and really make a difference. It was always my dream to come here.

How would you describe your experience as an immigrant?

I have had the most amazing experience as an immigrant. I was welcomed by one of America’s top designers with open arms to be his assistant. Working with Warhol, with Martha Graham, with Halston…to me, it was the most amazing welcome.

I worked hard and made a career. I never had a feeling that I was discriminated against because I looked different. America loved you because you were different, and because you had something to offer. In America, talent goes a long way. I have had an amazing experience.

In honor of Immigrant Heritage month, which immigrants to America have most inspired you?

In fashion, Oscar de la Renta inspired me tremendously. He came from a little island country, worked hard and made a life for himself. In addition to his talent, he gave so much to the arts and to New York, and so much back to his country. People like him and Sergey Brin from Google inspire me. They come to America, have a point of view, work hard, create a life and give back.

I am also inspired by all the workers in the Garment District. I would say 90 percent of my staff is immigrants. They work so hard in an industry that can be difficult and they inspire me.