Following the Fashion Group International Dallas’ Night of Stars, we sat down with 2024 honoree Dee Ocleppo Hilfiger to discuss her career achievement in accessories and more.
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How meaningful is it for you to be honored by FGI Dallas?
I am so grateful to be honored by FGI Dallas. The organization does such great things to support our up-and-coming emerging artists. This industry can be tough, so being able to be honored and also show my support for empowering the next generation means a lot.
What has been your favorite Judith Leiber collaboration to date?
I love them all and cannot choose a favorite. However, we donated a bag from our collection to Ashley Longshore’s collection. Ashley is a long-time friend of mine, and she has such a unique creativity that she really allows to shine through her art. When curating the collection, you can really see Ashley’s full personality and artistry while also encompassing the iconic heritage of Judith Leiber. It was such a pleasure to combine the two worlds into such a beautifully curated collection.
Can you describe your design philosophy and what inspires your collections?
My design philosophy is classic and timeless. When curating pieces for any of my brands, such as Dee Ocleppo shoes, my new home line Mrs. H, DO by Dee Ocleppo, or Judith Leiber, I love to include bold pieces that never go out of style. By creating pieces that are able to be mixed and matched, it allows for different looks that can be worn season after season. Longevity in clothing, shoes, bags and home products is very important to me.
What can readers be on the lookout for from your collection in 2025?
In 2025, readers can expect to see classic pieces from my clothing brand, DO by Dee Ocleppo, sold at Nordstrom's, and my new home line, Mrs. H, that can be worn and used for years to come. Judith Leiber is always a brand that likes to go big and bold so you will see new designs that encompass the luxury and whimsical heritage of the brand.
Tommy and Dee Hilfiger; Photo by Lori K Sapio
Chuck Steelman, James Aguiar, FGI Global CEO, Maryanne Grisz
Courtenay DeHoff, Alex Cohen, Zach Sutton
Regional Director Alex Cohen
Photography by: Photos by Thomas Garza
