The world’s leading fashion designers are influential icons, mingling with celebrities and crafting memorable wearable art. But who stands out the most in the fashion world? Here are the top designers to watch in 2020.
1) Ralph Lauren
Ralph Lauren started his New York-based apparel company in 1967. Since then, he has been designing iconic, preppy clothing for both men and women, plus perfume, accessories, and even furniture. His net worth is $7 billion, with the Polo Ralph Lauren sportswear line being particularly renowned. The brand’s classic polo shirts and cashmere jumpers are iconic pieces.
2) Giorgio Armani
Giorgio Armani, recognized as one of the premier red carpet designers, is celebrated for his unique and sophisticated menswear. He launched his business in 1975, and his net worth has reached an impressive $8.6 billion. Armani has crafted elegant suits for Olympians, actors, and football players, along with stunning gowns for musicians like Lady Gaga and Beyoncé.
3) Valentino Garavani
Simply known as Valentino, Valentino Garavani has been a leading fashion figure since 1960. His brand is synonymous with bold womenswear, footwear, fragrances, and accessories. He was a favorite of US First Lady Jacqueline Kennedy and has designed red carpet gowns for celebrities like Jennifer Lopez, Elizabeth Taylor, and Anne Hathaway. He is known for the trademark shade ‘Valentino red’ and has a net worth of $1.5 billion.
4) Roberto Cavalli
Roberto Cavalli is celebrated for his leatherwear, denim, and glamorous prints for both genders. His animal print dresses and snake motifs are staples, and his ‘Just Cavalli’ line caters to a younger audience with perfumes, underwear, accessories, and jewelry.
5) Miuccia Prada
With Miuccia Prada at its helm, Prada has become one of the world’s premier luxury fashion houses. Originally a small leather goods company founded by her grandfather in 1970, Prada is now known for minimalist and modern designs in shoes, handbags, and luggage. Her net worth is approximately $2.7 billion.
6) Calvin Klein
Calvin Klein started his brand in 1968 with a focus on men’s suits and coats, later expanding to include jewelry, perfumes, and sportswear. The brand is renowned for its ‘sensual, modern, and provocative’ clothing, such as its iconic cotton underwear collection.
7) Alessandro Michele
Alessandro Michele leads the famed Gucci brand, which was founded by Guccio Gucci in 1921. Michele’s leadership combines Italian craftsmanship with detailed design, helping Gucci maintain its reputation for luxury textiles and extravagant style. The versatile Gucci belt is a staple in high-end wardrobes worldwide.
8) Olivier Rousteing
Since 2011, Olivier Rousteing has been the creative director of Balmain, a prestigious French brand known for its luxurious and decorative fabrics. He incorporates new gold medallions, buttons, and tassels into his designs, showing sharp attention to detail and exceptional craftsmanship. Balmain has partnered with many notable designers like Victoria’s Secret and H&M.
9) Tom Ford
Tom Ford, a relatively new name in the high-fashion industry, launched his brand in 2005. His self-titled brand is known for a wide range of products, from clothing to fragrances and cosmetics, including the successful ‘Tom Ford Beauty’ line.
10) Anthony Vaccarello
Once the creative director at Versace, Anthony Vaccarello now leads Saint Laurent. His designs embrace the brand’s modern, rebellious, and gender-neutral spirit, with their logo heels and handbags being especially popular among women around the globe.