Diane von Furstenberg Reveals How She Uses Her Suitcase to Nail the Perfect Practical Outfit

Pack it up! When Diane von Fürstenberg gets dressed, a simple mantra guides her. The Brussels, Belgium native, 77, told ET her tips for nailing a chic look while celebrating the opening of the Diane von Fürstenberg: Woman Before Fashion exhibition at the Skirball Cultural Center in Los Angeles, California.

“I’ve always referred to the motto la petite valise while designing my collections and curating my own wardrobe. The french phrase, which translates to the little suitcase, is a symbol of dressing for ease and practicality; two factors I’ve always found imperative when creating the perfect outfit. If you know how to pack, you know how to live,” she explained.

“The foundation of a woman’s closet should be practical staple pieces that never go out of style. Once you have your go-to classics, you can weave in statement pieces through bold colors, fabrics and silhouettes to coincide with each season. … It’s a simple way to add a little extra to any day-to-day look,” she added.

An absolute must-have? The designer’s beloved wrap dress, which has been worn by A-listers including Cindy Crawford, Madonna, Zoe Saldana, Kate Hudson, Paris Hilton, Sarah Jessica Parker, Kendall Jenner and more.

“While the designs and silhouettes have shifted throughout the years to keep up with the ever-changing trends, the core values of the DVF brand have always remained the same. We’ve kept our iconic designs, such as the wrap dress, but have found ways to elevate the styles to keep current,” the philanthropist noted. 

von Fürstenberg is even influenced by her brand’s wearers when creating pieces. 

“The Woman Before Fashion title of the exhibition explains it all. … DVF pieces are designed with the women wearing and living in them, first and foremost. … I constantly find myself inspired by the incredible women around me, which I then incorporate into my designs,” she said. 

“With every design decision I make, whether it be fabrics, colors or silhouettes, I hope to create iconic looks that inspire women to feel confident and free. … My designs are always about freedom, which can be seen within the looks showcased throughout the Woman Before Fashion exhibition.”

Visit the multidisciplinary exhibition from now through Aug. 31, 2025.

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