Photo Credit: Alexandra Wyman for WireImage
Donna Karan graced Southern California with her presence to open the 'Nomads Two Worlds' exhibition at Pier 59 Studios West in Santa Monica alongside collaborative partner Australian photographer Russell James.
Jennifer Chan: You just wrapped New York Fashion Week and here you are in L.A. How are you keeping it all together?
Donna Karan: In my life, I have to I live in the moment! If you ask me about Fashion Week, I'm already thinking of the next Fashion Week! But, everyone loved the collection and I loved that we showed early so I could be out here to open the pop-up store here for Urban Zen, which is exciting. I'm about to show Urban Zen in season this April, so people can see immediately what we've been working on. I've been to Australia with Russell. I’ve done the journey with him. He's such an inspiration.
JC: Tell us about Urban Zen.
DK: Urban Zen started three years ago. I launched it in New York and it is so much fun! The whole intention of Urban Zen is the preservation of culture, healthcare and education. The preservation of culture is key to our existence right now. I went to Melbourne and Sydney and worked with the artistry of the Aboriginals to create really beautiful, one-of-a-kind cashmere silk scarves that retail for $6,500. We also went to Haiti and now I'm working on a collaboration with Haiti. The spirit of Russell and I go hand in hand.
JC: What do you like to do when you're in L.A.?
DK: I like to be in Malibu. I like to visit my friends who I don't get to see. I like...my Urban Zen store that just opened up! I love shopping at Maxfield's...I never shop in New York unfortunately. I love driving a convertible and walking along the beach...watching the sun set and rise. I love driving along Sunset Boulevard and taking in the trees and the greenery.
JC: Oscars are upon us in L.A. Can we expect to see any of your designs on the red carpet on Sunday?
DK: I don't know. I don't have a clue. Neither does anybody until that day. We'll know when we know!
Donna Karan and Jennifer Chan
Donna Karan Russell James
Donna Karan
