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Fashion designer Narciso Rodriguez: My immigrant parents are the real success

In an interview with Natalie Morales on TODAY Friday, Narciso Rodriguez gives credit to his supportive family and notable friends.
/ Source: TODAY

Narciso Rodriguez has become a household name with his eponymous ready-to-wear line, shoes, bags and even namesake fragrances. As a red carpet and White House favorite, he can easily be defined as a success.

In an interview with Natalie Morales on TODAY Friday, the humble Cuban-American designer shares the spotlight and credits his supportive family and notable friends. Here are three things we learned about the fashion heavyweight.

1. His Cuban-immigrant parents are his "heroes"

Narciso Rodriguez
Narciso Rodriguez celebrating a birthday with his parents.TODAY

"That idea that so many immigrants have to give their kids a better chance, they're the real success stories," Rodriguez said. And now that he's a success in his own right, he said he still finds his parents a source of support.

Narcisco Rodriguez with mother and father.
Narcisco Rodriguez with mother and father.TODAY

"They love going to every boutique, making sure that everything looks good and then they call me," he said. "It's very sweet."

2. He designed Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy's iconic wedding dress

Carolyn Bessette, John F. Kennedy Jr. wedding
John F. Kennedy Jr. married Carolyn Bessette in 1996. For the private wedding, the bride wore a classic gown designed by Narciso Rodriguez. Her hair was pulled in a bun with a clip that belonged to her mother-in-law, Jackie Kennedy.Denis Reggie

"I made that dress with so much love, for someone who I loved so much. And then I got home and the whole world changed for me," he said, reminiscing about the moment when many first heard his name.

3. Michelle Obama is a big fan

Michelle Obama
On November 4, 2008, Michelle Obama wore a dress from Narciso Rodriguez to join her husband, Barack Obama, appearing for the first time as president-elect of the United States.Getty Images

Rodriguez has dressed powerful and influential women of all ages, and that includes America's own first lady on numerous occasions. Michelle Obama even chose one of his designs for a very special night indeed — when her husband was first elected president.