Designer Dictionary: Guide to Top Designers A- G

May 4, 2009 02:00 PM | | Posted in designer, chanel, gucci, balenciaga, guide, designer dictionary, salvatore ferragamo, chloe, john galliano, giorgio armani

*Abaete
Pronunciation: A-Buy-A-Tey

Laura Poretzky’s line combines the femininity and sensuality of her Brazilian and French roots into an accessible resort collection for women. However, most TBF readers will recognize Abaete as the first designer to join the Payless designer shoe collection (they are no longer a part of the collection).

Armani, Giorgio
Pronunciation: Jor-ji-o Ar-ma-nee

Known as the Prince of minimalist glamour, Giorgio Armani chucked a career in medicine for the life of a fashion designer. Although he started his labels in the mid 70s, most consider his styling of Richard Gere in “American Gigolo” in the early 80’s as his break into mainstream fashion. Armani is now a global brand with numerous sub labels from the couture Giorgio Armani to the mass market A/X Exchange. When thinking about Armani, think Italian tailoring with a bit of classic American style.

Azria, Max
Pronunciation: Ma-x As-ree-a

Azria is the head of a family run fashion empire that includes the BCBG lines, The Rave,G+G stores, Herve Ledger (you know those iconic bandage dresses), and a couple of more brands. His lines tend to be heavily influenced by California High Fashion- printed jersey knits, shoes with a bit of bling, etc and tend to be more of a junior cut. You can often find pieces from BCBG at your local Neiman Marcus or Saks Fifth Avenue Outlet.

{pagebreak}
Badgley Mischka
Pronunciation: Badge-lee-mish-ka

Mark Badgley and James Mischka do Old-Hollywood evening wear like nobody else. Teri Hatcher and Winona Ryder created a storm on the red carpet in 1996 wearing the designer-lover duo’s glamorous gowns and the world soon took notice. Badgley Mischka is most famous for its out-of-this-world bridal wear (remember the awesome bridal gown Charlotte York wore at her second wedding in Sex and the City? That was them.), and they also design glamorous daywear, sportswear and lingerie.

Blahnik, Manolo
Pronunciation: Muh-no-low blah- nick

When Carrie Bradshaw, the main character on HBO’s popular series “Sex and the City”, begged a mugger not to take her Manolos, a love affair was born. The high end shoe maker, who is responsible for the design and prototype of every shoe that bears his name, and his 30 year old company is THE shoe of record for those who want (and can) be fabulous in 3+ inch stilettos (Manolo does make flats and lower heeled mules). The shoes, made of silk, lace, satin and other nice materials, cost upwards of $300. Blahnik is solely responsible for the design and prototype of every shoe that bears his name. Can’t afford the 300+ price tag? Save up to 80% off the retail price of a pair of Manolo’s by shopping at the Saks Fifth Avenue or Neiman Marcus Outlet stores.

Balenciaga
Pronunciation: Bal-en-see-AH-gah

Spanish designer, Cristobal Balenciaga (1895-1972) is a true inspiration for twentieth century designers. His designs created illusions, while outlining the perfect silhouette of a woman’s body. Balenciaga favored mute colors like black and brown, as well as an asymmetrical design. He’s influenced designers as diverse as Andre Courreges and Marc Jacobs. The house is mostly known for its excellent leather goods, particularly the famous motorcycle bag.
Bottega Veneta
Pronunciation: Bo-TAY-ga Ve-NE-tah

The high-end leather goods company Bottega Veneta is known for its fabulous purses and exceptional design. Highly reputed for quality and exclusiveness, this designer is known for the signature Intrecciato Line. In July 2001 the company merged with the Gucci Group.
{pagebreak}
Burberry
Pronunciation: Burr- bar-re

Before the iconic plaid check became the ultimate symbol of British high style, Thomas Burberry was a lowly apprentice who opened his small outfitter (coat) shop in England in 1856. He later
went on to invent Gabardine, the trench coat, and outfit the first dude to land at the South Pole. Can’t afford $1000+ for a trench coat? Head to the Burberry outlets (Kathryn once purchased a
Burberry trench from the outlet for $400, a 80% savings).

Cavalli, Roberto
Pronunciation: RO-ber-to Ka-VA-lee

Robert Cavalli styles combine rock and glam, with a touch of color and sexiness. He’s not afraid to mix textures and prints, like leather with animal prints, denim with feathers, and silk with fur. Roberto Cavalli wearers include: Kimora Lee Simmons, Beyonce Knowles, Alicia Keyes, Bono, Jennifer Lopez, and Lenny Kravitz. He’s also pushed into the discount designer sphere with his limited collection for H&M. Cavalli is known for pushing the envelope, on the runway as well as his personal style.

Chanel
Pronunciation: Sha-nel

Gabrielle “Coco” Chanel is perhaps one of the most influential fashion designers in the history of fashion (Time Magazine honored her as one of the 20 most influential artists, entertainers of the 20th century.) Born in 1881, it’s hard to believe that the woman who made jersey knits elegant was met with a cool reception when her first collection was introduced. By the time she died in 1971, she had revolutionized the fashion world and left a design and business legacy that can be found in some of the most famous fashion houses in the world.

Chloe
Pronunciation: KLO-ee

“Sexy” and “ultra cool” are the adjectives often associated with the designer label Chloe. Chloe’s designs portray extreme romance, luxury and elegance. The French quintessential design house received worldwide exposure when it employed Stella McCartney (daughter of ex-Beatle Sir Paul McCartney) as Karl Lagerfeld’s replacement as head designer. Chloe is especially known for its sexy handbags and shoes.

**Claiborne, Liz
Pronunciation: Liz Clay-Born

Liz Claiborne was as shrewd a businesswoman as she was a designer. Established in 1976, Liz Claiborne, Inc. started off as a line of moderately-priced sportswear for women. The brand soon appealed widely to the working woman with its streamlined and silhouetted pieces. Claiborne also revolutionized the department store shopping experience as she was one of the very first designers to demand that her collection be sold together, in one space. Isaac Mizrahi is currently the designer for the Liz Claiborne’s line, Liz Claiborne New York.

Comme des Garcons
Pronunciation: KUM de Gar-SOHN

Tokyo born Rei Kawakubo founded the clothing line Comme des Garcons in1973. According to Infomat, “Comme des Garcons specializes in anti-fashion, austere, sometimes deconstructed garments, sometimes lacking a sleeve or other component.” Her color choices are often simplistic: black, dark gray, and white.

Courreges, Andre
Pronunciation: AN-Dre Courreges

Courreges invented the mini skirt in 1964 (which he paired with white go-go boots), the swing coat, and the A-line mod dress—making him one of the most influential designers of the last fifty years. After leaving Balenciaga in 1961, he started his own line and helped defined the “sixties” look through his liberal use of white, straight lines, cut-outs, and his SPACE AGE collection.

Dior, Christian
Pronunciation: KRE-shtaan DEE-or

Whether it’s the saddle bag or a vintage couture evening gown, Christian Dior is the designer of choice for Hollywood’s elite. Launching the line in 1949, Dior directed the fashion world to the extravagantly feminine look, one that is provocative, ultra-sexy, and refined grungy.. The house is currently led by designerJohn Galliano.

Dolce & Gabbana
Pronunciation: DOL-chay and Gab-BAH-nah

Former lovers Domenico Dolce and Stefano Gabbana are the designers to the world’s rock royalty. Using strong, sensual designs with bold animal prints paired with fluorescent accents and traditional fabrics like denim, the boys aren’t afraid to mix it up and specifically design clothes for strong, confident, cosmopolitan, and powerful women.

Ellen Tracy
Pronunciation: EL-lin TRAY-see

Starting out as a blouse company, Ellen Tracy later flourished into a full range of classic separates, shoes, eveningwear and accessories company. The line focuses on classic office and night-on-the-town wear for professional and sophisticated women. Look for this line at Bloomingdale’s, Macy’s, and at Off Fifth, Saks Fifth Avenue Outlet.

Etro
Pronunciation: Ae-tro

This family run textile and fashion company is known for mixing bold printed fabric (think bright pink paisley on purple background on a piece of jacquard fabric) with clean Italian tailoring (making it one of Kathryn’s favorite fashion lines).  Founded in 1968 by Gimmo Etro, the company has replaced Pucci (who obviously influenced Gimmo) as the Italian bold print brand of note. Now if only, they would produce a line for Target.

Fendi
Pronunciation: Fen- dee

In terms of American pop culture influence, Fendi is right up there with Gucci and Louis Vuitton as the brand most frequently mentioned in rap songs. Established in Italy in 1925 as a handbag shop, Fendi is one of the most influential brands in the history of fashion, if for no other reason, the Fendi family “discovered” Karl Lagerfeld and gave him his first job at a major design house. While the line continues to produce a ready to wear collection, Fendi is really known for their iconic bags (the much copied “Spy” bag, the baguette, etc.).

Ferragamo, Salvatore
Pronunciation: Sal- va- tor Ferr-A-ga-mo

The King of footwear, Salvatore Ferragamo, has been providing the elite with luxury consumer goods for years. Launching his career in ever-so-wonderful Hollywood, his designs were initially utilized in film productions, like the ruby red slippers he created for Dorothy in the 1939 version of the “Wizard of Oz”. Today, Ferragamo takes a more conservative approach to shoe and accessory design (ex: continued use of block heels during the era of the stiletto). Each vision is portrayed in each well-manufactured shoe and the design house has expanded its line to bags, eyewear, silk, accessories, watches, perfumes and a ready-to-wear clothing line.

Ferre, Gianfranco
Pronunciation: Gee-an-fran-ko Ferr-ay

Italian designer Gianfranco Ferre is not one to follow trends. A former architect, Ferre’s designs are heavily influenced by the form and structure of garments from Asian countries like India. This designer also produces a very high end plus size line.

Ferretti, Alberta
Pronunciation: Al-bur-ta-fer-re-tee

The ‘Queen of Chiffon’ opened up shop at the tender age of 18 in Cattolica, Italy and there was no looking back. Ferretti started her line in 1980 and created a name for herself with her free-flowing and feminine designs. The designer is famous for turning her staple materials—chiffon, draped georgette, charmeuse and satin—into red-carpet creations. In 1984, she launched a younger, more causal line called Philosophy di Alberta Ferretti which soon became a huge hit. Her brother Massimo, is also part of the company, and produces Moschino, Moschino Cheap&Chic, Jean Paul Gaultier, etc.

Galliano, John
Pronunciation: Gall-lee-a-no

Imaginative and creative, John Galliano’s designs are deeply rooted in history. Almost all of his collections have a strong link to a particular period in history and are often on the cutting edge of fashion (he reintroduced crinoline in the 1990s). The British fashion designer was appointed designer of Givenchy in 1995 and left Givenchy in 1996, to head Christian Dior. He continues to be the designer of record for fashion forward celebrities like Gwen Stefani (he designed her
wedding dress).

Givenchy
Pronunciation: Gee-von-she

Best known as the man who dressed Audrey Hepburn, Hubert de Givenchy combined elegance and classicism to all of his designs. Think Audrey Hepburn in “Breakfast at Tiffany’s” and you’ll understand this design house. In 1954, Givenchy was the first designer to create a luxury collection of women’s ready-to-wear. Former heads include John Galliano and Alexander McQueen.

Gucci
Pronunciation: Goo-chee

The House of Gucci was started in 1921 as a leather goods store by Guccio Gucci. By the 50’s, Gucci had became a luxury-goods brand the world came to recognize through its iconic ‘G’ symbol. In the 70’s, the label started to deteriorate because of issues within the Gucci family but was revived by designer Tom Ford in the 90’s. Tom Ford’s sexy fall 1995 line turned things around for the company and put Gucci back onto the fashion roadmap. Frida Giannini is currently the head designer of the House of Gucci.

Click Here for More: Top Designers H-M

Are we missing an important designer? Do we need to update our information? Contact Us.

Designer Dictionary: Guide to Top Desgners N-Z

May 4, 2009 02:00 PM | | Posted in designer, diane von furstenberg, guide, vera wang, designer dictionary, anna sui, proenza schouler, tracy reese, zac posen, emilio pucci

Prada, Miuccia
Pronunciation:  Mee-U- cha Pra-dah

Prada was originally founded as a leather goods shop by Mario Prada in 1913. But, his daughter, Miuccia Prada,  with the help of her husband, is really the one responsible for turning Prada into a fashion powerhouse in the 80’s. Miuccia’s innovative designs, such as the nylon backpack, became an infamous fashion symbols of the 90’s, with starlets and socialites alike, carrying the coveted ‘it’ bag. Miuccia’s designs have continued to be ground-breaking yet practical—no wonder the devil is said to have worn Prada.

Posen, Zac
Pronunciation: Zak Poo-zen

This young fashion designer started his collection at the tender age of 16 and got his big break when Demi Moore was photographed wearing his designs while hanging out with Aston Kutchner. With the extensive fashion knowledge and business skills he gained from his internships at The Metropolitan Museum of Art’s Costume Institute and Nicole Miller, he was able to create a unique and creative line for himself with funding from Sean “Puffy” Combs. Socialites, supermodels, and celebs all love his angular styles and 1940’s Hollywood inspired designs.

*Proenza Schouler
Pronunciation:pro-en-za skool-er

Former lover and design partners, Lazaro Hernandez and Jack McCollough, created the modern luxury label, Proenza Schouler (combination of their mother’s maiden names), as students at New York’s Parsons School of Design. After presenting their graduate thesis to great acclaim, buyers from Barney’s New York quickly bought their whole line. Their line offers an edgy, youthful take on high-end fashion and is worn by fashion forward Hollywood stars like Demi Moore. The duo won CFDA’s Perry Ellis Award for new talent in 2003

Pucci, Emilio
Pronunciation: E-MEE-lee-o POH-chee
 
The socialite, Italian skier and designer Emilio Pucci was known for his use of completely unique and infamous prints during the sixties. The brand is synonymous with bold, brightly colored patterns with a kaleidoscopic psychedelic feel.Think Austin Powers.

Reese, Tracy
Pronunciation: TRAY- cee Ree-s
Favored by celebs like Mira Sorvino and Carla Gallo, designer Tracy Reese continues to gain prominence in the fashion world. With intense background training from Martine Sitbon and Perry Ellis, her styles today reflect the elegance of women with a hint of tradition and vintage-inspiration. She freely uses colors and embellishments like beading and sequins in her designs.

Saint Laurent, Yves
Pronunciation: EEV San-LAWRON

Yves Saint Laurent breathed new life onto the French fashion scene in the 60’s. At the age of 21, he was the youngest designer to ever head the house of Dior. YSL’s iconic couture creations include the women’s tuxedo (the memorable Le Smoking), the ultra-chic trench coat, peacoat, shirt-dress and the safari-chic trend. He was also one of the very first designers to use black models in his shows. In 1983, he was the first living designer to be honored with a solo exhibition at the Metropolitan Museum of Art.

Schiaparelli, Elsa
Pronunciation: EL-sa She-a-pa-REHL-lee
 
Elsa Schiaparelli, along with rival Coco Chanel, dominated the women’s fashion scene in the early part of the twentieth century. It was Schiaparelli who designed the famous pink suit Jackie (Bouvier) Kennedy (Onasis) wore the day her husband, President John F. Kennedy, was assassinated. She was also of the surrealist camp with the likes of Salvador Dali, and this influence can be seen in her designs, especially in her trompe-l’oeil sweaters. Her collections were recently exhibited at the Philadelphia Museum of Art.

Sui, Anna
Pronunciation: AN-na SOO-ee

Originally from Michigan, Sui is known for her “head-to-toe” looks, unique ability to counter bright colors with black and liberal usage of rich fabrics. The NewYork Times calls Sui a designer who “never panders” and her styles continue to set trends and inspire other designers all around the world.

* Thakoon Panichgul
Pronuciation: Ta-koon Pa-neech-gool

Thakoon’s designs are eccentric yet charming, which is precisely why he’s often a Michelle Obama pick.  This former fashion editor puts original spins on ordinary pieces—i.e. a knee-length cocktail design with sequins streaked across haphazardly. Last year, Thakoon’s line at Target flew off the shelves as quickly as they were put on them.
Ungaro, Emanuel
Pronunciation: Eh-MAHN-wayl Oon-GAH-ro

In the beginning, Italian born designer Emanuel Ungaro found himself struggling for appreciation and even acceptance in the fashion world. Today, his works continue to set trends for other designers. His clothing line is put together to “remind women that they are the joy of every man.”

Versace, Gianni
Pronunciation : Gee-a-nee Verr-sa-chay

The late Italian designer, Gianni Versace, found his namesake label in 1978. Although the label is most known for its mix of “grandiose sexiness” and “decadent European-inspired styles” (remember the infamous J. Lo dress?), few remember that the collection first started as a menswear line. Versace is now led by Gianni’s sister, Donnatella, who’s often parodied on Saturday Night Live. It also wins the award as “the designer mentioned most in corny hip-hop songs”.

  Von Furstenberg, Diane
Pronunciation : DY-an Von FUR-sten-berg

Diane Von Furstenberg is known for turning the knit wrap dress into a closet staple. The dress, which enhances the feminine body by accentuating its curves, is sported by celebs like Kirsten Dunst and Cindy Crawford. If you can’t afford the original wrap dress, try versions from Rampage, Max Studio, or Anne Klein.

Wang, Alexander
Pronunciation: Alex-an-dur Way-ng

The Parsons’ dropout showed the high-end design school that he could make it even without their stamp of approval. Alexander Wang’s first collection, launched in 2007, was edgy, cool and a little bit grungy. Impeccable cashmere sweaters, shrunken vests and distressed jeans make up an Alexander Wang special and his list of fans include model and muse Erin Wasson.

**Wang, Vera
Pronunciation : Veer- ra Way-ng

This former Vogue senior fashion editor and New York City native, launched her first bridal collection in 1990. Since then, her name has become synonymous with bridal and evening glamour. Her collection now includes footwear, fragrance, eyewear and home furnishings.

Wu, Jason
Pronunciation: Jay-son Wu

The twenty-six-year old became a household name when First Lady, Michelle Obama, chose the newbie designer’s white chiffon dress for the inauguration ball. Prior to becoming the premiere designer of choice by the First Lady, Wu was the creative director for a line of designer dolls called ‘Fashion Royalty’, sold at F.A.O Schwartz.  He started his own fashion label in 2006 and was recognized by Vogue editor, Anna Wintour, as a promising new talent. Wu’s designs are distinctly feminine and polished.  His teacup skirts, floral dresses and dainty jackets create nostalgia of an earlier era while keeping it decidedly modern. No wonder the First Lady was bowled over by his clothes.

Previous: Top Designers H-M

Are we missing an important designer? Do we need to update our information? Contact Us.

Designer Dictionary: Guide to Top Designers H-M

May 4, 2009 02:00 PM | | Posted in designer, louis vuitton, designer dictionary, isaac mizrahi, marc jacobs, hermes, betsey johnson, halston, calvin klein, alexander mcqueen

Halston
Pronunciation: Hall-stun

If you lived in the 1970s, then you know Halston. Roy Halston Frowick was the guy that dressed pretty much anyone who entered the door of the infamous Studio 54. He was to fashion in the 70s what Marc Jacobs is to fashion today (maybe even a little higher), bringing fabrics like ultra suede to the forefront of fashion. Everyone from Liza (Minelli) to Bianca (Jagger, Mick’s first wife) discoed the night away in his designs. However, when disco fell, apparently Halston’s status as the “it” designer fell with it. Recently, the line has started to gain prominence
via vintage stores and consignment shops.

Hermes
Pronunciation: Air-mez

Since 1837, the Parisian luxury goods company Hermes has made the most exclusive, most coveted bags in the world. So high is a Hermes handbag, that they even dissed Oprah (and course found out that nobody is bigger than Oprah). The Birkin bags (named after British actress Jane Birkin) and the Kelly bag (named after screen goddess and princess of Monaco, Grace Kelly) are two of the most expensive (upwards of $5000) and hard-to-get bags in the entire world. The French company is also known for their exquisite silk scarves.

** Hilfiger, Tommy
Pronunciation: Tom-ee Hill-Fig-ur

There’s no denying that the urban crowd made the Tommy Hilfiger brand what it is today. Hilfiger’s clothes are also commonly seen as All-American and preppy, with fresh-faced jocks and peppy cheerleaders modeling his lines. Tommy Hilfiger started his career with a store called People’s Place in his native, Elmira, New York, and in the early days of his career, turned down assistant positions at Calvin Klein and Perry Ellis to concentrate on his own work. Tommy Hilfiger names music as the inspiration for his designs and its no wonders that rappers and rockers alike are huge endorsers of the brand.

Hugo Boss
Pronunciation: He-you-go Bo-s

German clothing brand Hugo Boss has been around for almost 70 years. During WWII, the company designed and manufactured uniforms for the Army officials and other governmental branches of Nazi Germany. Despite their nefarious past, the brand continues to offer immaculate business suits favored by many leading male celebrities like George Clooney and a solid collection for women. Less expensive versions of the suits can be found at stores like Nordstrom Rack, Filene’s Basement, and K&G.

**Imitation of Christ
Pronunciation: Em-ma-ta-shun of Cry-st

Created by designer and sometime actress, Tara Subkoff, the designs are described as “painfully hip” and aims to “transform undesirable into desirable.” Think trailer park meets Rodeo Drive. The label is very popular with the Olsen twins and other members of the young, hip, SoHo set. For a while, Subkoff had a partnership with comfort shoe maker Naturalizers, for a high end comfort shoe line.

Jacobs, Marc
Pronunciation: Ma-rk Jay-kob-s

From coveted handbags to pretty party dresses, Marc Jacobs continues to be one of the most influential young designers in fashion. A media darling, Jacobs transforms the styles you wore in high school (bows, lace, prom like dresses, oversized tops) to styles you can wear as an adult. Jacobs designs not only his own labels- Marc Jacobs and, the less expensive, youth oriented line Marc by Marc Jacobs, but also designs the ready-to wear line for Louis Vuitton.

Johnson, Betsey
Pronounced BET-see JON-sun

Designer Betsey Johnson has always followed her own set of rules. Known for her brightly colored hair and catwalk cartwheels, Johnson utilizes sexy silhouettes, whimsical designs and flowing fabrics to inspire her style. Currently there are over 41 Betsey Johnson stores worldwide.

**Klein, Calvin
Pronounced CAL-vin KLYIN

Born on November 19, 1942, this minimalist designer is known for his use of neutral colors, classic, timeless cuts and styles. However, he’s most known for his jeans, made famous by Brooke Shields in the early 80s. The designer has found great success with mass market versions of his underwear (remember Marky Mark) and perfume lines

Karan, Donna
Pronounced Don-NAH KA-ran

The ultimate New Yorker, Donna Karan saved professional women worldwide from the agony of the “career suit”. Her styles focus on classic lines that fit “real” women’s bodies and tend to shy away from extreme prints. She also has a well known denim/casual line called DKNY (Donna Karan New York).

**Kors, Michael
Pronunciation: My-kal Ko-ors

He may be best known as the beo-tchy judge on “Project Runway”, but Michael Kors is very successful fashion designer, designing classic luxury pieces since 1981. His designs tend to take a glamorous spin on sportswear, resembling a cross between preppy Ralph Lauren and glamorous Escada. He also has a very successful bridge line (a.k.a cheaper) called MICHAEL
by Michael Kors, which is sold at most major department stores.

Celebs who wear Michael Kors: Sharon Stone and Gwyneth Paltrow.

*Lagerfeld, Karl
Pronunciation: Ka-ral La-ger-fell-d

Karl Lagerfeld is perhaps the most influential fashion designer alive today. The German born designer has transformed the design house of Fendi, Chloe, and most recently Chanel, with his keen mixture of classic and street styles. An accomplished artist and photographer, he has also created lines for H&M and Neiman Marcus.

Lang, Helmut
Pronunciation: Hell- Mut Lay-ng

Helmut Lang’s razor-sharp lines and high-tech fabrics are especially catered to those with specific body types (okay, to REALLY skinny people). He was one of the first designers to turn t-shirts into expensive couture pieces, spawning a whole generation of over-priced tees. His razor lines and use of high tech fabric makes him a favorite among the European techie set.

Lanvin, Jeanne
Pronunciation: John La- vin

From her storied feud with fellow french fashion visionary Coco Chanel to building one of the first haute couture fashion empires, Jeanne Lanvin is the greatest designer you never heard of. Starting out as a milliner late 19th century Paris, Lanvin used the dresses she designed for her young daughter as the basis for the design house that became the epitome of French elegance and style. She’s best known for her mother-daughter collections and robe de style dresses, dresses
characterized by a dropped waistline and a full skirt. Lanvin is now led by designer Alber Elbaz.

**Lauren, Ralph
Pronunciation: LORE-in

Designer Ralph Lauren was one of the first designers to build his brand into a “lifestyle brand” and is credited with bringing the preppy blue blood look into mainstream American fashion. The Polo brand, and its iconic logo of a polo player, symbolizes American wealth and leisure (think summers in the Hamptons and winters in Aspen). His more mass market lines focus on comfort,
causal looks with a slight nautical bent, but his higher end lines (Black Label) are known for their elegance, grace and sophistication for both men and women.

Lepore, Nanette
Pronunciation: Na-net LA-pour

Mixing femininity with wearability, Nanette Lepore is like the “chick lit” designer of fashion. Her clothes are fun (they often feature embroidery, lace or other detailing) and accessible (most of the pieces are well under $500). According to her bio, Lepore’s designs are “suitable for a tea at The Ritz or a night out on the town”

Celebrities who wear Nanette Lepore: Hilary Swank, Sarah Jessica Parker and Eva Longoria.

Lim, Phillip
Pronunciation: Fill-lip Lem

Lim is known for taking ordinary fashion and giving it some extra bling—case in point; the Swarovski-encrusted headband or the silk blouse with an oversized self-tie below tacked on below the chin.  Stars such as Natalie Portman and Kate Hudson are frequently seen sporting his cutesy designs. Phillip Lim hasn’t stopped at 3.1 Phillip Lim; he now also designs menswear, eyewear and childrenswear.

Louboutin, Christian
Pronunciation: KRI-shtaan Lu-bu-TAHN

If you are a fan of the movie “Sex and The City” you know about footwear specialist Christian Louboutin), whose high heel shoes are often compared to a work of art.  His styles range from Georgian and Oriental to Wedgwood porcelain and Louis XV. You can identify Louboutins’s by their trademark bright red soles. The shoes can be quite pricey, so get them on sale at Bluefly.com

Louis Vuitton
Pronunciation: Lu-wee Vee-tuhhh

What started off as a luggage store in Paris in 1854, is now a global status symbol. In fact the brand’s iconic “LV” logo is considered one of the first designer labels and was created in the late 19th century to, believe it or not, prevent counterfeiting. According to the brand’s Wikipedia page, only 1% of Louis Vuitton branded products sold around the world are authentic. The brand, which now includes clothing, shoes, and other accessories, conveys a sense of classic luxury and wealth (summers on the French Riviera) and is led by designer Marc Jacobs.
 
Malandrino, Catherine
Pronounced KATH-er-in Mal-an-DREE-no

Combining “the energy of Manhattan with the romance of Paris”, designer Catherine Malandrino creates clothing with a soft elegant style. Malandrino states, “I want to create irresistible clothes that make a woman desirable, clothes that a man just wants to discreetly take off, clothes to keep as a secret, clothes that stay darling to you forever.” And forever is just what she delivers, because actresses Demi Moore, Julia Roberts, and Halle Barry swear by her designs. If you’re lucky, you might be able to find her pieces at Off Fifth, the Saks Fifth Avenue Outlet.

*McQueen, Alexander
Pronounced: Al-ex-AHN-der Mac-KWEEN

Born March 17, 1969, in London, McQueen isn’t your typical designer: shaved head, tattoos, and risque-yet-fun catwalk shows. He’s known for his master tailoring and in 2001 became the chief designer for Givenchy. McQueen’s famous “bumster” trousers helped him receive the British Designer of the Year award in 1996.  He is known for his liberal and non-traditional use of plaid and recently premiered a limited edition line at Target.

Miller, Nicole
Pronounced: Na- Koal Mill-r

Miller’s is known for mixing bold prints with very feminine cuts, resulting in trendy, yet wearable garments. She’s a big, Hollywood favorite (everyone from Halle Berry to Angelina Jolie wear her designs).  To find Miller’s higher end line for less, check out Bluefly.com or Smartbargains. For those of us who are “living-it-frugal”, check out her Nicole by Nicole Miller line at JCPenney.

Missoni
Pronunciation: Me-son-nee

Missoni is one of the premier knitwear design houses in the world. When Ottavio Missoni designed his first tracksuit in the 1940s, little did he know he would create garments that would become the epitome of high end knitwear. In 1958, the label “Missoni” was finally sewn on to the products. The classic zigzag designs in bold and rich colors are a trademark for this designer’s work. Missoni wearers include: Demi Moore, Cameron Diaz, and Sharon Stone.

**Mizrahi, Isaac
Pronunciation: Eye-zak Miz-ra-hee

With a new TV show on Bravo, it’s easy to forget that Isaac Mizrahi is also a very talented fashion designer and costume designer for several Broadway shows. He’s also the man who brought the high/low look to the masses. His line for Target revolutionized the fashion world, bringing high-end fashion to the masses and creating classic clothing that real women can wear at prices they can afford.

Miyake, Issey
Pronunciation: E-say Me-ya-kay

Art, nature, and technology are the inspirations behind influential Japanese designer Issey Miyake’s line of clothing. He past collections included updated versions of traditional Japanese clothing like kimonos and sashiko coats and “Pleats Please” dresses printed with works by Miyake’s favorite contemporary artists. As one first Asian designers to gain global prominence, he lead the way for other major Asian designers like, Yohji Yamamoto and Comme des Garcons’ Rei Kawakubo, to become global fashion powerhouses. From a fashion perspective, his pieces are more like works of art than ready-to-wear, and most of his couture pieces are considered collectors items.

Previous: Top Designers A-G

 

Next: Top Designers N-Z

Are we missing an important designer? Want to update a description? Want to a add or correct an entry? Send me an email.