There are many aspects of their culture for which the Italians are famous and one of these is their fashion sense. The stereotypical image of Italians is of well-dressed individuals with a sophisticated style. Therefore, it is little wonder that so many of the world’s best fashion designers come from Italy. Here are five of the top Italian fashion designers.
• Giorgio Armani
Without a doubt, Giorgio Armani is a true legend of Italian design and has become an iconic figure in the fashion industry. In fact, in 2001, he was named by Forbes as the most successful fashion designer of all time. He first started the Armani label in 1974 and by the 1980s, he was designing clothes for celebrities. Other than his stunning designs, he is also well-known for being one of the first designers to avoid using overly thin models, both on the catwalk and for promotional and marketing materials.
• Domenico Dolce & Stefano Gabbana
Stefano Gabbana and Domenico Dolce first began a romantic relationship before establishing their fashion brand, Dolce & Gabbana. Although their romantic partnership came to an end in 2005, they continue to work together in their business. They have become one of the most successful fashion houses in Italy.
• Mario Prada
When Mario Prada founded his company, it originally focused on leather goods. When he died in the 1950s, his daughter-in-law took over the business before his own daughter took over in 1970. Following her takeover, Prada became a symbol for working women in power.
• Valentino Clemente Ludovico Garavani
Valentino was an apprentice under Jacques Fath at Balenciaga. He was also an apprentice of Jean Desses and Guy Laroche. He returned to Italy and made his debut in Florence in 1972. Following the success of this, his designs were in popular demand. During the1960s, he was considered the king of Italian design.
- Gianni Versace
Gianni Versace originally studied architecture before switching career paths to fashion design. He presented his first collection in Milan. The influences for his designs include the art of the Romans and Ancient Greeks and the abstract art of Andy Warhol. Although he has predominantly focused on fashion design, he has also designed costumes for movies and theater productions.
• Silvia Venturini Fendi
Before Fendi became a high-fashion house, it began as a leather and fur shop. Silvia Venturini Fendi is still the head of accessories but she has passed the artistic design over to Karl Lagerfeld. Lines created by this brand include fur clothing, leather goods, fragrances, shoes, accessories, and eyewear. The company was originally founded by Adele and Edoardo Fendi before they passed on their business to five daughters; Paola, Alda, Anna, Carla, and Franca. Silvia Venturini Fendi is the daughter of Anna Fendi.
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