The Daughter of a fashion model and a haberdasher, Donna Karan was steeped in fashion from childhood. She attended Parsons School of Design, after her second year took a summer job with Anne Klein, and never returned to school. She was made associate designer in 1971. When Anne Klein became ill, Karan became head designer. In 1984, Karan was given her own firm by Takihyo Corporation of Japan, Anne Klein's parent company. Her hallmark has always been wearability - classic sportswear looks with a stylish edge, and an element of tough chic. Karan's first collection under her own label established her immediately as a new fashion star. Some of her current lines include the Donna Karan collection, DKNY Watches and DKNY Tech.