Tom Ford, born on August 27, 1961, in Austin, Texas, is a fashion designer and filmmaker whose influence extends beyond the industry. Ford’s journey began after studying architecture at the Parsons School of Design. His eye for design led him to pursue a career in fashion, where he initially worked for American designers Cathy Hardwick and Perry Ellis. However, it was his move to Europe that marked the beginning of his illustrious career.

In 1990, Ford joined Gucci as the women’s ready-to-wear designer. His vision and design prowess ultimately led to his appointment as creative director in 1994, where he used bold cuts and luxurious fabrics. We saw this during his Fall Winter 1995 collection, which featured velvet hip-huggers, satin shirts, and metallics, as well as his Spring Summer 1996 collection, known for its white jersey dresses with cut-outs. Ford’s work not only rescued Gucci from near bankruptcy but also transformed it into one of the most profitable and influential global luxury brands.

His impact extended beyond Gucci when he became creative director for Yves Saint Laurent in 1999. At YSL, Ford continued to push boundaries. The YSL Fall Winter 2002 collection, with its mix of sharp tailoring and sultry evening wear, and the Spring Summer 2003 collection, featuring vibrant colors and inventive silhouettes, solidified his reputation. By the time he left the Gucci Group in 2004, Ford had set new standards for luxury, leaving a permanent mark on both brands.

When Ford launched his eponymous label in 2006, it was a defining moment for his career. Ford channeled his creativity into a brand that encapsulated his own sophisticated aesthetic. The Tom Ford label quickly became synonymous with high-end luxury, offering everything from tailored menswear and womenswear to coveted accessories and beauty products.