Diane von Furstenberg, the legendary fashion designer and cultural icon, is making headlines not for a new collection, but for her candid, heartfelt response to her husband Barry Diller’s recent revelation that he is gay. In a memoir released earlier this year, Diller, the media mogul and former Paramount Pictures CEO, came out publicly at age 83—a move that has sparked both curiosity and admiration, especially given the couple’s 24-year marriage.
“What’s the Difference? He Turned Out to Be My Soulmate”
In an exclusive interview with
Variety published October 16, 2025, von Furstenberg addressed the news with characteristic grace and wit. “What’s the difference? He turned out to be my soulmate,” she said, brushing off any suggestion that Diller’s sexuality changes their relationship. The designer, known for her empowering wrap dresses and trailblazing career, has always embraced authenticity—both in fashion and in life.
Diller, for his part, wrote in his memoir
Who Knew? about the unexpected nature of their romance. “I can’t explain it to myself or to the world. It simply happened to both of us without motive or manipulation. In some cosmic way, we were destined for each other,” he reflected. Von Furstenberg added her own perspective, recalling their early days as friends before their relationship deepened: “I never thought it would be anything else. Then it turned to passion. He was very insistent.”
A Life Marked by Unconventional Love Stories
This isn’t the first time von Furstenberg’s personal life has defied expectations. She was previously married to Prince Egon von Fürstenberg, who later revealed his bisexuality. With characteristic humor, she summed up the parallel: “I married two gay men. Okay, I don’t know why, but to me they’re not gay.” Her openness about these relationships reflects a lifelong commitment to living without labels or limitations.
Beyond the Headlines: DVF’s Business Evolution
While von Furstenberg’s personal life is capturing attention, her brand is also undergoing significant changes. After years of outsourcing design, production, and distribution to Chinese licensee Glamel, Diane von Furstenberg (DVF) is bringing operations back in-house under new CEO Graziano de Boni, a veteran of Valentino, Armani, and Prada. De Boni, who took the helm in October 2023, has been diving into the brand’s archives, rediscovering its iconic prints and fabrics, and working to “regain control of the design and narrative” for the future. By the end of 2024, all DVF operations will once again be managed directly by the company, though Glamel will continue to handle distribution in greater China.
The brand also scored a hit earlier this year with a limited-edition line at Target, proving that the wrap dress—now celebrating 50 years—still resonates with new generations.
Why This Matters
Diane von Furstenberg’s response to her husband’s coming out is more than a celebrity soundbite—it’s a reflection of her philosophy that love and connection transcend categories. In an era when public figures are often pressured to conform to narrow narratives, von Furstenberg’s authenticity stands out. Meanwhile, her brand’s strategic pivot signals a renewed focus on heritage and creative control, ensuring that DVF remains a force in fashion for years to come.
What’s Next for DVF?
With von Furstenberg’s personal story making waves and her company reclaiming its creative direction, the next chapter for DVF promises to be as bold and unpredictable as its founder. Whether on the red carpet or the sales floor, Diane von Furstenberg continues to prove that true style is about being unapologetically yourself.
Sources
1. Diane von Furstenberg Reacts to Husband Barry Diller Coming Out ...
2. Diane von Fürstenberg - Wikipedia
3. Catching up with Diane von Furstenberg - Good Morning America
4. New Diane von Furstenberg CEO to Bring Operations Back In-House
5. Diane von Furstenberg
6. Diane von Furstenberg on husband Barry Diller coming out as gay
7. Diane von Furstenberg: Woman Before Fashion
