Not merely a dressmaker, Charles Frederick Worth was a 19th century fashion designer from England who is better known as the “father of haute couture.” Famous for using lavish fabrics and ornate trimmings, he is said to be the first to have his own label sewn into the luxury items he created.
Other British men have quite successfully followed in his designer footsteps.
Alexander McQueen – Despite his untimely death in 2011 at the age of 40, Alexander accomplished a great deal in his short-lived career. His impeccable designs and workmanship combined with his extravagant and controversial fashion shows have added to his reputation. He was the chief designer at Givenchy for 5 years, created the “bumster” which launched the low-rise jean trend, and won 4 British Designer of the Year awards in an 8 year span.
Today, all of the collections within the brand are being supervised by McQueen’s creative director, Sarah Burton.
Christopher Bailey – Another 40 year old designer with quite a list of credits to his name, Christopher has been the chief creative director at Burberry since 2009. He joined the company in 2001 after adding his design talents to companies such as Donna Karan and Gucci.
Christopher, along with the company CEO, Angela Ahrendts, established The Burberry Foundation in 2008. A philanthropic organization dedicated to helping young adults realize their dreams with charitable donations and grants from the company, the employees and the customers. He, too, has received British Fashion awards in the categories of both Designer and Menswear Designer of the Year.
Paul Smith – What began as a pursuit of becoming a racing cyclist, resulted in three decades of designing clothing and accessories for men and, since 1998, women. At 66 years old, Paul is still heavily involved in all aspects of his business including shops in places such as Los Angeles and Dubai as well as London. He’s also taken his original dream and turned it into a reality…of sorts. Paul now designs cycling gear for Rapha, a premium lifestyle and sportswear brand focused on precisely his passion.
Worth's silk, glass & metallic thread dress circa 1925
Charles Frederick Worth
McQueen's Spring/Summer 2012
Alexander McQueen
Burberry-Prorsum Spring/Summer 2012
Christopher Bailey for Burberry
Paul Smith Spring/Summer 2012
Sir Paul Smith
