Oscar De La Renta

Originally interested in becoming an abstract painter, Oscar de la Renta, born in 1932 in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic, found that he was more interested in fashion design. After founding his label he first achieved success with ball gowns. Now one of the world's leading designers, his work has been worn by Nancy Reagan, Hillary Clinton, and Laura Bush. Also a patron of the arts de la Renta has served on the boards of Carnegie Hall and the Metropolitan Opera. Updated 2007