A 'Runway' Success

I also have a very edited closet. There's barely anything in there. Everything in there I've actually sewn and wear. I have three things that I didn't make. In the last five years, I've purchased only three things that I didn't make.

I noticed that you rocked a full-on equestrian look for one of the challenges. I didn't see that coming.

I know it seems wacky, but to me that's my version of jeans and sneakers.

Yeah, okay, that's a little off-the-wall.

I'm mean, if I'm going to be in the country, where I have to walk on grass -- and I can't walk on grass in my Manolos -- I'll wear those riding pants and boots. I probably do have a pair of Levi's 501 jeans somewhere in the house but I'm just not a jeans person. I'm not against jeans for other people, but I do expect women to take time for themselves and not put themselves completely last behind their families and children. To try taking care of yourself and see if that makes you feel better and see if that benefits your family.

I don't expect women to do it exactly the way that I do it; that's not what I'm suggesting. If your upgrade in your clothing is a nice pair of trousers and loafers, then my advice is to try it for a week. Get dressed every day a little bit nicer than you would've and see if it makes a difference in your day. See if you feel better. See if people treat you better. I guarantee that it'll happen.

When you were growing up, was your mom always very pulled together?

Not on a day-to-day basis like I do it, but when she did get dressed, it was always effortless. She had the pieces nearby that she needed and it wasn't fussy. But she has a lot of dogs, so she doesn't wear cocktail dresses all day like I do.

You were born and raised in New Orleans. Your look, though, is very Manhattan, very Upper East Side. Have you always had this Audrey Hepburn thing?

I've always been drawn to simplicity, but I've definitely cultivated my style over the years. I'm going for a very simple, elegant and classic and easy style. It's also very consistent. My friends are never shocked by what I wear when I walk into a room. I'd suggest to women, especially ones with children, that you develop a uniform for yourself and your lifestyle. Make it easy to look great.

How do you go about doing that?

Edit your closet. Know what looks good on you.