The first person who comes to mind is Tory Burch. She has impeccable taste in fashion and interiors and that truly comes across in her work. The fact that she juggles designing a collection, running a business, and raising a family — and looks so good doing it! — definitely makes her an icon in my book.

I think an icon is someone who has something to say, a statement to make, and little regard for the naysayers who stand in her way. An icon is an unforgettable someone whom we aspire to be more like. An icon makes a strong impression and puts her unique stamp on the world.

I was fortunate to be able to spend six months last spring living with a French host family in the Loire Valley. I traveled every weekend to cities like Athens, Barcelona, Istanbul, and London… And yet the place I’m most inspired is right in my Connecticut backyard. Just a 45-minute train ride away, New York has always been the city that gets my heart racing. It’s not as breathtaking as Venice or as romantic as Paris, but I can’t get enough of New York’s constant hustle and bustle.

4. What is your idea of iconic style?

People who possess iconic style aren’t afraid to take risks that the rest of us might not (yet!). Sarah Jessica Parker and Kelly Wearstler come to mind when I think of modern icons who have a unique sense of style that they’re not afraid to put out there for the world to see.

I keep saying that being an icon is all about signature style, so here’s mine. It might not be a meal (or is it?!) but I love my coffee ice cream. I’m dying to make my own using this recipe!