There is only a handful of iconic designers that I would be psyched (read: freak out) to meet, and Oscar de la Renta is undeniably one of them. When word got out that de la Renta will be signing autographs at The Bay for the launch of his new perfume Live in Love, I hyperventilated for a moment, and then promptly ran to The Bay Queen Street on my lunch break to meet the charming designer.

At the event, de la Renta gave a quick interview to Jeanne Beker, revealing that he is a much better designer than he was 30 years ago, now that he knows so much more about life, and his craft, just as a woman can be more beautiful as she gets older and wiser. And what is beauty, according to Oscar de la Renta? “Real beauty is not what you project with your physique, but what you project with your mind.” What a lovely message, non?

When it was time for autographs, Oscar actually took the time to talk to each person in line, as well as take a photo with those that wanted one (that would be me!) – never rushing, always smiling. In today’s world full of celebrated reality TV plastic idols idiots, it is a rare treat to meet someone as truly talented, intelligent, and…sigh…charming as Oscar de la Renta – a true gentleman, and a fashion icon. Crossing this one off my bucket list.

Have you tried Live in Love yet? What did you think? Let me know in the comments.

Live in Love, Oscar de la Renta’s newest fragrance “for women, created by a man who adores them” has a light floral scent, with top notes of hyacinth, galbanum, bergamot, lily-of-the-valley and orchid, and is available in Canada exclusively at The Bay.