Diane Freis ’72

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Diane Freis has built a veritable world empire in the highly competitive field of fashion design, outfitting such superstars as Shirley MacLaine and Bo Derek in her inimitable, brightly colored, ruffled-to-the-hilt, one-size-fits-all dresses. Her satisfied customers include former First Lady Rosalynn Carter and royalty from England to Bhutan. Freis is known not just for her unique designs but also for her business acumen. Diane Freis Enterprises of Beverly Hills and Kowloon is said to gross some $20 million each year. Individual dresses sell for upwards of $500.

Originally planning a career as a painter and gallery owner, Freis got started in fashion in 1972, shortly after receiving her bachelor’s degree in art from UCLA. She launched herself by creating a series of Eisenhower jackets which were snapped up in one week’s time by such luminaries as Diana Ross, Joni Mitchell and Elke Summer. In 1978, the native Angeleno relocated to Hong Kong to set up her clothing manufacturing business. Starting with a staff of just 30, Freis now employs 250 workers at her Hong Kong plant, while maintaining headquarters in Beverly Hills.

Freis’ life is a whirlwind of fashion show appearances, boutique openings and fabric buying sprees. Still, she finds time to experiment with new styles and creations. Not “all business,” Freis is sensitive to human need. She has been recognized by such charitable organizations as the Guild for Cystic Fibrosis and the City of Hope for her generous gifts and personal support.