She is 78 and, in her words, “still kicking”.

The designer, feminist, businesswoman and philanthropist is reclaiming her brand with her signature touch: a focus on quality fabrics, colourful prints and clothes with attitude.

DVF recently sat down for a freewheeling chat that touched on the iconic wrap dress, the American dream and what the world needs in this age of rage.

You came to America as a young immigrant with a suitcase full of dresses …

I lived the American dream. I immigrated, but I wasn’t really a refugee. But my parents were refugees when they went to Belgium, and I remember my father always saying you have to be kind to refugees.