After more than five decades of redefining American fashion, designer Norma Kamali is opening up about her journey — from her very first job in the industry to what she calls her “final role” as the head of her own namesake brand.

In a recent interview, Kamali candidly discussed the early beginnings of her career, when she worked as a fashion illustrator and stylist in New York City during the 1960s. It was a time, she recalls, when creativity had to be bold and relentless to stand out in a male-dominated world.

Her “last job,” as she describes it, is the one that defines her legacy: steering the Norma Kamali brand — known globally for its bold shoulder pads, ruched swimsuits, and iconic sleeping bag coats. Kamali’s work has outfitted everyone from pop stars to presidents, and her designs have consistently balanced comfort, innovation, and empowerment.

Now in her late 70s, Kamali shows no signs of slowing down. “I don’t think of retirement as an option,” she says. “As long as I’m creating, I’m alive.” She continues to design collections that merge wellness with style, and she frequently speaks about the importance of longevity, entrepreneurship, and reinvention at any age.

Kamali’s story is not just one of fashion, but of perseverance, evolution, and an unwavering belief in personal vision — making her a trailblazer for generations to come.