"The dress has to appeal to a woman's emotions. She puts on the dress she likes. And then if the dress likes her, she'll know it. She'll see the transformation in the mirror. She'll put that dress on, and the magic happens. She feels special. And the dress seems to say, 'I love you too, honey.' " -Diane Freis

Los Angeles born American designer, Diane Freis, got her start studying fine art at the University of California. In the late 1970’s she crafted a small number of structured military style jackets and sold them to a Hollywood boutique where they were quickly bought by Diana Ross, Elton John, and Joni Mitchell. After her new success Freis travelled to Hong Kong in search of unique fabric and fell in love with the city. She opened her first boutique in Hong Kong in 1978 with herself and a few dedicated seamstresses. She began creating colorful dresses in eye catching patterns. Her bright designs captured the glamorous and outrageous style of the 1980’s. Her use of easy flowing polyester georgette and one-size styling made her dresses easy to wear and perfect for travel.