When we started this “conversation” about six months ago, one of the things that intrigued us was how much of a business fashion had become from the sheer volume of goods sold, numbers employed, and the more intangibles like how fashion makes us feel, what it says about us. And, of course, there is the artistry, handed down from generation to generation, of designers and craftsmen. There is also the other side –  inexcusable working conditions in many factories, lack of diversity, and a focus on those under 50.

What fashion has given us are amazing role models for women reaching the top of their profession – some by inheritance, some by sheer talent, determination and/or luck. Proudly their names grace their designs like Donna Karan, Coco Chanel, and, one of the greatest living titans, Miuccia Prada.  While age is not where we should start, she is 66.  As entrepreneur and designer, she has been at the helm of her family business since 1978.  Ms. Prada has made fashion a vehicle for ideas.  She has given us every reason to love wearing clothes, to seek our own path, and our own style:

http://www.independent.co.uk/life-style/fashion/features/is-miuccia-prada-the-most-powerful-and-influential-designer-in-fashion-a6683801.html?utm_source=Subscribers&utm_campaign=217e4adbf1-&utm_medium=email&utm_term=0_d2191372b3-217e4adbf1-417139825