“Age means nothing to me. In my mind, I feel about 40. I’ve always drawn energy from associating with younger people, and I still do. It’s a habit I developed early on. Young energy is inherently optimistic.

This youthful spirit is reflected in my store and art gallery on East Broadway in Manhattan, as well as in my projects. Last year, I released a book, which I hesitate to call a memoir because “memoir” suggests an ending, and I don’t feel like there’s an ending yet. Instead, it’s more of a journey through various experiences. I had the chance to express my thoughts, so I took it.

I also had a blast working on “Happy Clothes,” a documentary with director Michael Selditch. One of the highlights was cruising around Brooklyn in my T-Bird with the top down.

The documentary opens with me swimming in a pool—a pastime I’ve enjoyed since childhood. Swimming makes me feel spontaneous and connects me to meaningful memories, especially of my mother, who was also a swimmer. We had a small bungalow in Connecticut by Bantam Lake, where we would swim almost daily.

My mother ran a dry cleaning business in Queens, and I consider her an entrepreneur. She greatly influenced who I am today. Though she didn’t offer much advice, her ambition shaped mine.

The women in my family—my aunts, my grandmother—were achievers who inspired me. They taught me to pursue what I love and excel at, which has always been fashion for me.

To do what I love, I need inspiration. Without it, nothing clicks. Working with Darren Star on “Sex and the City” challenged me; he often questioned my styling choices, but I usually managed to convince him.

Betty Halbreich was another inspiration. I was amazed to learn that when we worked together at Bergdorf Goodman, she had daughters in their 70s, meaning she was in her 90s at the time. Age meant nothing to her.

Currently, I’m inspired by artists like Jody Morlock and Scooter LaForge, whose work is featured in my gallery. They represent continuity and leave a lasting impression on me.

When people call me a legend or an icon, it feels distracting. It creates an obligation to live up to that name. I’ve never considered myself a diva; I’m not here to seek fame.

I’ve had long-term relationships, one with a stylist and another with a woman who was a go-go dancer when we met. Right now, I don’t have anyone special in my life, and while I feel a bit lonely at times, I think it’s better to not have someone to answer to.

Later this month, we’re moving to a new gallery space on East Broadway that offers greater visibility. I’m excited to have a storefront again. I wouldn’t say we’re moving forward as much as moving on. You only need to stop when you lose interest. If you shut yourself off, it’s over.

As for me, I’m still here with my team, figuring out the next day.