Diane von Furstenberg Is Tired of People Being ‘Too Afraid’ to Age

Diane von Furstenberg has shaped the style of generations of women with her iconic wrap dress, and now, she’s here to influence their thoughts on aging. The 77-year-old fashion designer has a new documentary, Diane von Furstenberg: Woman in Charge, on Hulu that celebrates her natural embrace of beauty.

The New York fashion star shared with People that she “never had my hair or makeup done for [the documentary,” and that was an intentional decision. “The point is: I think that people are too afraid of aging. But aging is a good thing. Aging proves that you have already lived,” she explained to the outlet. Von Furstenberg loves being in her 70s because she “never thought I would get to be my age.” Her perspective is refreshing to hear, and perhaps we should all adopt her philosophy.

“I used to think I was going to die by the time I was 30 because I had accomplished so much by the time I was 28. That’s why I say, instead of asking, ‘How old are you?’ you should ask, ‘How long have you lived?’ And then, all of a sudden you answer with pride,” she added. Von Furstenberg’s success came 50 years ago with the wrap dress, a style that looks good on all body types and evokes a sensual style in fashion. Her designs have been seen in high-end department stores, and even in a 200-piece collection for Target — von Furstenberg’s style legend is for everyone.

Her wise words about aging likely come from the fact that she was born only 18 months after her “mother was liberated from Auschwitz.” Living was a gift after what her mother endured. “She weighed 49 pounds… my mere birth was a triumph over misery, and therefore, just the fact that I was born was a triumph,” she told Julia Louis-Dreyfus on Lemonade Media’s Wiser Than Me podcast in May 2023.

“She never wanted me to be a victim. Never be a victim, no matter what happens. And that’s how you build your character,” von Furstenberg continued. “Because the only thing that you have complete control of — the only thing — is your character.” So, the next time a moment of self-doubt creeps in or that inner voice has a negative thought, remember von Furstenberg’s belief that aging is a privilege.

Before you go, click here to see all the celebrity women who have spoken out about ageism.