The Woman I Wanted to Be summary

The Early Years and the Making of a Fashion Icon

In The Woman I Wanted to Be, Diane von Furstenberg takes us back to her early years in Brussels, Belgium. She describes her mother, a Holocaust survivor, who instilled in her a sense of resilience and independence. She also shares her fascination with fashion, often playing dress-up in her mother's closet, and her first forays into design, creating simple, yet stylish dresses.

After marrying Prince Egon von Furstenberg, Diane moved to New York City, where she launched her eponymous fashion line. The iconic wrap dress, designed in 1974, quickly became a symbol of women's liberation and a staple in every woman's wardrobe. Diane's brand and influence grew rapidly, and she became a figurehead in the fashion industry.

Life, Love, and Loss

Amidst her professional success, Diane's personal life was tumultuous. She candidly discusses her relationship with her husband, Egon, and the challenges of balancing marriage, motherhood, and a thriving career. Their eventual divorce left her heartbroken, but she found solace in her work and her two children.

Tragedy struck when her mother was diagnosed with cancer, and Diane became her primary caregiver. She describes this period as an emotional and transformative experience, deepening her understanding of mortality and reinforcing her resilience.

Rediscovering Herself and Her Purpose

After her mother's passing, Diane took a hiatus from her fashion empire to travel and reflect. She spent time in Bali, immersing herself in the local culture and spirituality. This sabbatical offered her the clarity she needed, and she returned to New York with a renewed sense of purpose and a deeper understanding of herself.

During this time, she also met media mogul Barry Diller, with whom she has been in a relationship for over four decades. Their partnership, characterized by mutual respect and independence, has been a significant source of stability and support for Diane.

Empowering Women and Philanthropy

Throughout her life, Diane has been a vocal advocate for women's empowerment. She founded the DVF Awards, which recognize and support women who are working to transform the lives of other women around the world. She also established the DVF Fund to support organizations that empower women and girls.

In The Woman I Wanted to Be, Diane shares her belief that every woman has the strength and power to be the woman she wants to be. She encourages women to embrace their individuality, take risks, and pursue their dreams fearlessly.

Legacy and Reflections

As she reflects on her life, Diane von Furstenberg acknowledges the challenges she faced, but she also celebrates her successes. She takes pride in her role as a designer, businesswoman, and philanthropist, and in the impact she has had on women's lives around the world.

Ultimately, The Woman I Wanted to Be is a story of resilience, reinvention, and relentless pursuit of one's dreams. Diane's journey from a young girl in Brussels to a global fashion icon is an inspiring testament to the power of self-belief and determination.