The fashion industry has existed for as long as anyone can remember, and so many influential women have made their mark on it, transforming the industry we know today. Here are some of the most powerful women in fashion history, from designers to entrepreneurs.
Miuccia Prada
After taking over the family business in 1978, Miuccia Prada has made both Prada and Miu Miu international names in fashion. The Italian designer is known for her innovative designs and eco-friendly methods. From hemp fibers to recycled fabrics, Prada has created innovative handbags and refined clothing designs influenced by Miuccia Prada’s style.
Ann Lowe
Recognized as the first well-known African-American fashion designer, Ann Lowe is a significant woman in fashion history. After learning dressmaking from her mother and grandmother, Ann took over the family business in Alabama. With her unique designs and flawless sewing skills, the designer made her way to Tampa, Florida and then NYC, rising in the industry. She began designing for high-society women and even created Jackie Kennedy’s wedding dress.
Diane von Furstenberg
Making fashion history, Diane von Furstenberg debuted the timeless wrap dress in 1974. A representation of female empowerment, the designer took her inspiration from her mother who survived the Holocaust. This feminine and flattering dress design is currently a part of the Costume Institute of the Metropolitan Museum of Art.
Elsa Schiaparelli
Born in Italy but rose to fame in France, Elsa Schiaparelli took the fashion industry by storm with her surrealist designs. Her unconventional creations made massive statements in fashion through her unique imagination. Elsa Schiaparelli used unexpected silhouettes, diverse colors, and curious materials to bring her visions to life.
Katiti Kironde
After applying to a best dressed contest in 1968, Katiti Kironde became the first woman of color to grace the cover of an American fashion magazine. From here she partnered with fashion companies and created her own label, selling only white button-down shirts. Her influence on diversity in fashion is widely recognized, as she went on to teach Harvard’s first ever Intro to Fashion course.
Rei Kawakubo
Founder of Comme des Garçons, Japanese fashion designer Rei Kawakubo’s influence is apparent in today’s fashion world. Kawakubo introduced many aspects to fashion, such as deconstructed clothing and guerrilla (aka pop-up) stores. Rejecting the norms, Rei Kawakubo embraced her “anti-fashion” way of thinking through unfinished hems, slashed sleeves, and uneven designs.
Audrey Hepburn
It wouldn’t be fashion history without Audrey Hepburn. Despite being an actress, her grace and elegance quickly turned her into a fashion muse and icon. Her authenticity and minimalist style influenced fashion forever, and many still take tips from her today.
Jeanne Lanvin
Starting as a small hat shop in Paris, Jeanne Lanvin worked her way up to the top through her feminine fashion designs. Her journey through fashion went from hats to children’s clothing, to opening men and women’s departments in her store. It’s no surprise the brand made a name for itself using luxurious fabrics and intricate details. Due to her legacy, Lanvin is currently the oldest French fashion house.
Each of these powerful women has made an enormous impact on fashion history. So many more women have changed fashion history that I could list them forever. I hope you enjoyed this bit of fashion history and feel the influence these women still have today!
XOXO,
Your Fashion Bestie
Featured photo by Laura Chouette on Unsplash
