The Donna Karan New York story is one of talented fashion designer establishing or pioneering new markets. Donna Karan went to work for Anne Klein in 1968, and became an associate designer in 1971. When Anne Klein became ill, Karan took over as head designer with associate Lious Dell'Olio. 1984 Donna Karan quit as head of Klein, to startup on her own. She did however have the backing of Takihyo Corporation of Japan, Anne Kleins parent company.

Originally designing under her name Donna Karan, she developed highly successful fashion lines of clothing and accessories. The name DKNY was launched in 1988 and was one of the leaders in the Bridge line of clothing - a collection the middle class could afford. DKNY watches is one of the fastest growing watch brands around, thanks to the designer flair of Donna Karan.