11 Things to Know About Jessica Simpson’s Billion Dollar Fashion Empire

2. She Received Help from a Legend

Although many people snickered at the thought of Simpson starting her own label, she received an immeasurable amount of support from a fashion legend. The late designer Vince Camuto (who helped Nine West soar to popularity) purchased the Jessica Simpson Collection’s master license through his company, The Camuto Group. He played an integral part in launching the singer-turned-fashion maven’s brand. While others wrote her off without even giving her a second chance, Camuto called Simpson a “style icon.” He knew she was the secret recipe to a successful brand because “people like her.”

Upon his passing, Simpson took to her Instagram to thank the designer in a touching tribute.

“It is never about one person. It’s the teams you put in place. Without the right people, you’re nowhere” -Vince Camuto Thank you, Vince, for the humble power that has taken me everywhere. You are my mentor, my family, the creator of all my dreams. I will forever walk in your shoes…you made them. #brokenheart

A post shared by Jessica Simpson (@jessicasimpson) on Jan 21, 2015 at 10:01pm PST