The Most Influential Men in Fashion
When considering the most influential individuals in fashion, names like Anna Wintour, Coco Chanel and Donatella Versace quickly come to mind. Yet, despite the powerful presence of female talent in the world of fashion, some of the industry’s most acclaimed styles and trends have been constructed by men. From classic and unconventional designers, to the beautiful faces (and bodies) that help market their work, the world of fashion is full of talented men who inspire the industry in countless ways.
Ralph Lauren is one prominent example of male achievement in fashion, epitomising the world of classic wear. From the famous short sleeve shirt with the polo-player logo (better known as the “Polo shirt”), to immaculately groomed bespoke suits for both men and women, Ralph Lauren is a name that will undoubtedly continue to live on in the world of fashion. Marc Jacobs is another, with an innovative yet classic evolution of style through the seasons. Marc Jacobs, who is also the creative director of Louis Vuitton, is largely credited for the army jackets and slouchy leather bags that quickly settled into the fashion scene.
Among the more unconventional men in the world of fashion are none other than John Galliano and the late Alexander McQueen. Galliano has named “theatre” and “femininity” as two of his major inspirations, creating distinctive and dramatic looks for the runway. Meanwhile, Alexander McQueen was – and even after his death, still is – well known for his jaw-dropping creations, which were famously seen on equally eccentric artists, such as Lady Gaga and Bjork.
But who could forget the male faces and bodies of the fashion world? David Beckham, for instance, is arguably one of the most influential men in fashion, launching the Dolce and Gabbana fashion line to new heights. The Italian designers admit that Beckham made it possible for men to “approach fashion without fear.” Robert Pattinson is another iconic name in today’s fashion world, voted among the top five in “GQ’s Fashion 100″ – a look at the most important people in UK menswear.
Last but not least, the world of fashion simply wouldn’t be the same without Sir Philip Green, owner of some of the UK’s largest retailers. Green’s assets now control 12 per cent of the clothing retail market in the United Kingdom, making his empire the second-largest in the industry. Green also placed at the top of “GQ’s Fashion 100″ list, as the most important person in UK men’s fashion.
So, while women have an undeniably powerful claim in the fashion world, it’s simple to see that men, too, have played a massive role in the industry’s development. From fashion designers and models to leaders in the UK’s retail market, men have clearly demonstrated – and continue to show – immense talent in the realm of fashion.
