American Designers

Highest paid in Self-taught of men’s tailored clothing. Highest paid in Self-taught of men’s tailored clothing.

First to make designer jeans in 80’s. Risqué advertising. Very prominent American designer. Uses clean lines, neutral colors.

Upscale women’s, men’s suits and sportswear. 7 CFDA¹ awards. Sold her financial aspect to LVMH². 1 Council of Fashion Designers of America 2 Louis Vuitton Moët Hennessy

Known for couture bridal designs. Began as a senior editor for Vogue. Has a better line called Simply Vera at Kohl’s.

Boy’s and men’s wear called “Sean John” Earned $100 million per year for his first two years. Paved the way for other “urban lines.”

First American designer to introduce pinstripes and houndstooth into womens wear. Died from cancer in 2002.

Texas native relocated to Paris. Creative director for Gucci and Yves Saint Laurent who is credited for saving those companies; Recently opened his own line, Tom Ford. One of the most influential designers ever.

Classy “preppy” styles for men and women. Began by designing 4”wide neckties in the 70’s.

Regarded as the patron saint of vintage New York chic. Known for simple wool dresses with a high round neckline, sequined cocktail dresses, and sailor motifs.

Italian Designers

Sister of Gianni Versace and continued the business after his death. Features –Electric colors –Sensuous fabrics –Clingy silhouettes –Bold sexiness

Muccia Prada Mime turned fashion mogul. Added womenswear to the leather handbag lines after inheriting the family business. Created the nylon backpack purse in 90’s.

Valentino Consistent popularity for 4 decades. 40 years! Vintage gowns considered collectable. –Ex. Julia Roberts’ black gown with white piping for Oscar night –Signature color is RED

French Designers

Oscar de la Renta Known for women’s suits and evening gowns. Uses lots of ruffles and lace. Designed first in Paris  then New York.

Gabrielle “Coco” Chanel Signature Chanel jacket and suit. One version of the LBD “little black dress” Visionary of the 20’s Created jersey knit fabrics

Chanel Suit Signature suit= Contrast piping on collar, cuffs, & pockets; Boxy jacket; Knee length skirt; Brass buttons

Chanel Bag Chain link strap; quilted; CC logo on the enclosure $3,200!

Christobal Balenciaga Known for: –H–Huge evening coats –C–Chemise dresses –P–Pillbox hats –L–Long full skirts

Hubert de Givenchy First designer of haute couture to introduce women’s luxury ready-to-wear. Legendary friendship with Audrey Hepburn who became the brand’s ambassador.

British Designer

Mary Quant One of the originators of the MOD look of the 60’s Miniskirts Vinyl boots Geometric patterns Strong colors Created the MINI skirt