The 20th century has undergone some serious transformation in regard to men’s and women’s fashion. This reform was driven by a class of top fashion designers who left a mark with their stylish, modern, creative and elegant clothing. As tastes can’t be compared and everybody has their own choice of iconic designers, we thought of collating a list of the best ones of all time.
It’s true that the world of fashion is blooming across the globe at a fast pace, yet there are many who are not aware of all the faces that glorified this domain. Although, there is no dearth of designers in this age, there are certain names that are considered as the fountainheads of this industry. These artistic folks have not just revolutionised the fashion scene, but also introduced varied cultures in their fabrics, designs and lines. Still not sure of the ones who blazed the trail in fashion design? We guarantee our list of designers continues to dominate the world of fashion and totally worth your moolah.
Check out our compilation of the ace designers as their work speaks for themselves and completely worth the indulgence.
Coco Chanel
The woman who gave us the wardrobe staple little black dress, Coco Chanel needs no introduction. She became a prominent figure in the 20th century fashion for her trademark suits, practical and simplistic designs. Before launching her first perfume, introducing the trademark ‘Chanel’ suit and timeless LBD in 1920s, this French fashion designer enjoyed a brief singing career. Believe it or not, Coco Chanel was the only designer who bagged a place on the ‘Time 100: The Most Important People of the Century.’
Till date, Coco Chanel as a label continues to rule as one of the most coveted ones in the world.
Image source: Coco Chanel
Giorgio Armani
Started working as a window designer, Giorgio Armani is most famous for his clean and tailored menswear. Spanning a career over 35 years, this Italian designer became famous for redefining the business suit in the 1980s. His collection of business apparel gained prominence for the lightweight fabrics designed for all day comfort. The Armani designer brand continues to remain independent in regard to the global investment channels. Presently, it has over 500 distribution stores across the world.
Image source: Giorgio Armani
Ralph Lauren
He bagged recognition for unveiling Polo Fashions during the 1960s by designing wide ties. His sense of fashion was applauded globally when he unveiled a line of women power suits that was inspired by menswear fashion. Ralph Lauren’s polo line still enjoys worldwide popularity as the short sleeve polo shirt is a staple in every fashion conscious man’s wardrobe around the globe.
Image source: Ralph Lauren
Yves Saint Laurent
Famous for revolutionising both women’s and men’s style during the mid- to late 1900s, Yves Saint Laurent incorporated youth and street style in his unorthodox creations apart from redefining femininity and masculinity. This French designer infused exotic fashion designs that were fresh, ground breaking and inspired by global fashion.
Image source: Yves Saint Laurent
Marc Jacobs
After graduating from the Parsons Design School, Marc Jacobs started designing street wear for Perry Ellis. He owns two major designer brands – Marc Jacobs and Marc by Marc Jacobs apart from designing shoes, jewellery and sunglasses. Considered as the most sought after designer for contemporary fashion, many of his fashion designs are vintage inspired comprising a touch of new and innovative styling.
Image source: Marc Jacobs
Christina Dior
Famous for his distinctive ‘New Look’ silhouette, this French designer revamped the way women dressed after the Second World War. Born in Northern France, Dior’s legacy continues to influence the fashion industry till date. His designs focussed on luxury to women’s fashion.
Image source: Christina Dior
Louis Vuitton
Prominent for its classic canvas monogram bags, the Louis Vuitton label was founded in 1854. For six consecutive years, it was named among the world’s most valuable luxury brand. The company enjoys presence across 50 nations with over 460 stores all across the globe.
Image source: Louis Vuitton
Oscar de la Renta
He became globally famous after he dressed US first lady Jacqueline Kennedy during the 1960s. This award-winning designer had worked for Lanvin and Balmain. His fashion designs have been adorned by celebrities and royalty both.
Image source: Oscar de la Renta
Miuccia Prada
After successfully managing her grandfather’s leather goods enterprise, Miuccia Prada started her career in the world of fashion with no formal training in designing. In the 1980s, Prada as a brand gained prominence after the launch of black nylon handbags. Named as one of the most influential designers, she disregarded trends and created designs that are powerful yet feminine.
Image source: Miuccia Prada
Valentino Garavani
Famous for designing Jacqueline Kennedy’s wedding address, Valentino bagged the Neiman Marcus award for many of his designs. Prominent for its use of luxurious fabrics and chic business style, all his pieces are considered as timeless and continue to remain in demand.
Image source: Valentino Garavani
Read more: Top fashion trends for fall: PART 1
Did we miss out on any of your favourites? Please share your opinion in the comments below.
