Since 1982, Miller has set the pace for her contemporaries, inspiring design revolutions. In 1986 she opened her first boutique to better serve her loyal customers and in doing so catalyzed a trend for independent designers wanting creative freedom from department stores. Ten years later, Miller put actresses, instead of models on the fall runway. Minnie Driver, Gretchen Mol and Jill Hennessy among others, made 'Fashion Week' history. Shortly following her show, the trend of 'actresses as models' emerged, as movie stars began replacing traditional models both in print and on the runway. A true American designer, Nicole Miller s perfect 'little black dress' has cultivated into an eclectic collection that imbues an individual sense of style. Today, the label has grown to include outerwear, accessories, cosmetics and a complete home line exclusive to Bed Bath and Beyond. In October 2003, Nicole launched her contemporary sportswear line, millergirl. The company has 30 freestanding NICOLE MILLER boutiques throughout the United States, each of which serves as a showplace for Nicole Miller and the lifestyle that she represents.