10 minutes with...Diane von Furstenberg

The Claridge's lift is said to be one of the sexiest places in London, do you agree?
I wouldn't know, I take the stairs.

How does London compare to New York?
New York is a microcosm of trade - everyone from painters to movie directors goes to New York to show their work. London is more elegant, established and old-fashioned.

Do you still go to nightclubs?
Not any more. You go to nightclubs to pick up. I'm too old now.

Do you work with any of your family?
My children Alexander and Tatiana sit on the board. I ask for their advice but I don't always listen.

You're launching a new perfume, you're collaborating with Gap Kids and H.Stern and there's another DVF collection on its way. How do you do it?
I don't know. I look tired and my husband is not happy with me, but soon I will be on holiday on my boat Eos, my floating home.

Is it a party boat?
We entertain when we meet friends along the way. This summer we're starting in Italy and ending up in Turkey. Days are spent swimming, reading and hiking.

How did you choose which fragrances to include in your new scent?
I picked my two favourite flowers: frangipani, which is about joie de vivre and warmth, and violet, which is mischievous. I wanted to combine the yin and yang to create something that suits all kinds of women.

What do you think about celebrities creating their own perfumes?
There are so many perfumes out there with beautiful bottles and pretty celebrities behind them but they've forgotten about the juice and the power of perfume. Fragrances have existed since antiquity and, certainly for me, a perfume is a woman's weapon of seduction.

What other weapons of seduction do you use?
Being happy with myself - it's about being the woman you want to be.

How did your jewellery collaboration with H.Stern come about?
I've wanted to be associated with H.Stern for 30 years. The old man said no, so I waited until his sons grew up and took over the company, and then I rang the bell again.

Are you tired of people asking you about your iconic wrap dress?
How can I be tired of something that has paid my bills all my life?