
The renowned fashion designer launched Seven Easy Pieces with her first collection in 1984, transforming how women dressed and examined style. (Photo by Evening Standard/Hulton Archive/Getty Images) 2. Donna Karanĭonna Karan’s love of fashion was instilled in her at a young age, shaping her brand in several ways. French fashion designer Coco Chanel (1883 – 1971), circa 1962. Coco Chanel was the only fashion designer to be named on the Time 100: The Most Important People of the Century. Her modernist thinking, practical design, and pursuit of expensive simplicity made her an important and influential figure in 20th-century fashion. So, we updated the list! Read on and be inspired!īorn Gabrielle Bonheur Chanel, “Coco” was an exquisite French fashion designer and founder of the well-known CHANEL brand.

Apfel calls herself the “accidental icon” - that’s also the title of her 2018 biography - but there’s no denying that she’s made an impact in the fashion world.Join Love Happens as we explore the top fashion designers of all time! We started with the top 50, but our fans reminded us of some names we really could not possibly leave off a list of the most fabulously famous fashion designers. One could say the response is just what is expected for the New Yorker, born on Aug. Model Winnie Harlow poses in a look from Apfel's collection with H&M. “Oh, I couldn’t believe it! Every time they call me and say, 'Lines around the block, five minutes all sold out.' Wow,” Apfel expressed putting her up and clapping with joy. (By the time of publication of this article, most of the line was already sold out stateside as well.)

The collection, which dropped April 14 in the United States, sold out overseas after its March 31 release. But it’s always exciting.”Īnd exciting it is. “Sometimes it works, sometimes it doesn’t. I improvise,” Apfel said in response to her inspiration on designing the collection. I’m experimental, I’m curious, I like to try new things. “I don’t know where my inspiration comes from. Of course, it wouldn’t be an Apfel collection if there weren’t dramatic accessories and slippers that matched the suits. There’s also bright mini dresses, flowy kaftans, a swimsuit that pays tribute to her signature spectacles and 100th birthday. With something “for everybody young and old,” as Apfel described it, the “playful” and “very happy” collection includes statement pieces like a billowing violet jacket made from tulle swirls, a floral print tiered maxi skirt with a matching blouse, and a yellow-and-purple lounge set with fringe detailing.

The new line embodies everything that Apfel stands for: mixing textures and patterns, bright and bold colors, and taking risks with over-the-top silhouettes. I think H&M did such a splendid, superb job in translating what I had in mind,” Apfel told TODAY during a video interview about the collection that celebrates “a century of personal style.” The beloved centenarian hasn’t stopped working and was eager to talk about her latest project with the Swedish clothing company. Noting that she's cold as she gets settled, a bright orange feathered coat is draped over her shoulders - the perfect piece to bring together her colorful ensemble.
