A 'Runway' Success

I enjoyed watching the show for two seasons and I live three blocks from Macy's where the audition took place. So I just did it.

Your design aesthetic seems very grown-up, and I mean that in a complimentary way. Have you found that women are responding to that?

Yeah, and it's very surprising. And I know exactly what you mean by very grown-up. I was making clothes that were right for a woman of my age. For women who want to look great and elegant, and who need things to be easy and simple. A lot of mothers need that.

Have you always had such a strong signature look?

I've always been drawn to simplicity, but I've developed a sense of style that's come with maturity and age. I used to be more of a follower when I was younger. My daughter is 18 now and in the last couple of years we'd be out walking on the street and she'd say, "Mom, everyone's staring at you!" Like that was bad! I'd tell her, "I think they're staring because I look great!" That's the difference between a girl and a woman. You have to be comfortable in your own skin and know who you are.

Well, maybe that's why I thought you were very hip. I mean, I don't know you, obviously, but your attitude about taking the time to put yourself together every day made sense.

You can't have this many children in an apartment in New York if you're not going to learn to let go of some things.

The fact that I get really dressed up is a conscious decision for me to hold my own in this chaos and caregiving that I have to do every day.

How long does it take you to get ready in the morning?

Oh, you'd be so shocked how little time it takes.

Please don't tell me something silly like ten minutes. That's absurd.

Absolutely! I can wash my hair and comb it into a ponytail. I'd probably be better off with a little bit of softness around my face, but I go for that look because even if it's dirty, it looks good. I wear dresses every day because they're so simple. I'm not a flats gal, but that's just my choice. I wear one of those long-lasting lipsticks and I wear false eyelashes and I leave them on. I wake up with eyes. It's so low maintenance and easy for me.