Across the next couple of weeks, Blueprint for Style will be holding a contest for the gentlemen (although ladies can participate as well). The purpose of this contest is simply to state your opionion and back it up!! Follow these simple instructions:
- Requirements: answer the question, “Who do you think is the single most influential menswear designer and why?”
- Post your answer in the comments section of this post or use the Contest form along the right sidebar
- The winner will receive the American Fashion Menswear book — the most authoritative and exciting book to date on the evolution of menswear in the United States across the last century [courtesy of Assouline publishing]
- The contest will run through April 17th; and the winner will be announced on April 19th!
16 Responses
I believe that Ralph Lauren is the most influential menswear designer to date. His Signatures are Iconic and long lasting. He has epitomized the American Male’s culture and status in the board room and while at play. The simple Button down shirt the polo both has transended many cultures and lifestyles. While his suits have been the style pinnacle of success.
Definitely the buttoned up collared shirt. It’s timeless, can be both casual and formal and can be made in numerous colors, prints, etc.
Currently, it’s got to be Dean and Dan Caten of DSquared2 – pushing the envelope urban male couture…
I think that Calvin Klein is both classic and relevant, his designs are timeless and underwear ads historic.
I personally love Andrew Marc. He consistently puts a new spin on classic menswear that anyone can wear and look fashionable.
Ralph Lauren has been the top men’s designer for years. Everyman will seek Polo (Ralph) clothing for casual and dress design
I believe PERRY ELLIS is the most influental designer of all time. His clothing line can be found in high-in stores, hotels and bargin basement stores. He has captured the market for years.
Tom Ford. He has dressed some of the most influential and famous men in the world. He doesn’t play around much with suit cuts, most of his cuts are classic shape that gives a man strong shoulders, a fitted waist, and long legs. Classic simplicity always works.
With a heavy heart, I’d have to say Ralph Lauren. Besides the obvious timeless brand, his apparel has stood strong during the changes in styles over the years from the high end pieces to, casual and even urban wear. My heavy heart comments are stickly from a concern of the targeted consumer as far as sizes are concerned. The grown and sexy men’s wear is not always sized with the 5’9″ 225 + pounders like myself (muscle that is) in mind, at least the shorts, tees and jeans are not. Now that i got that out of my system, his impact goes unmatched as far as consistency and trnd setting are concerned. Colors are always on point and the syles and brand still seems to dictate fashion from the Boardroom types, skateboarders, preps and the urban community.
Although not a designer in the contemporary sense, the most influential menswear designer is Beau Brummel (1778-1840). He gave us the suit, the collar and tie and modern trousers.
For me it would have to be Perry Ellis (1940-1986). He is timeless. His designs were always in style and comfortable. You felt relaxed and confident in Perry Ellis. I think because he started as a very successful designer for women clothes, he knew what women liked to see their men in. He truly was a classic. Gone to soon.
I’m not sure about designers, but do like Mark Shale for men’s clothes. Martin and Osa is another good one for casual clothes. That’s all I got Barnett…need more education from the expert.
Sean “P Diddy” Combs, for transitioning from Hip Hop Mogul to Branding his self as a Lifestyle Designer! Now I should have preset this by saying I am not a fan but respect the accomplishments.
Ralph Lauren. Somehow, he has managed to maintain relevancy, appeal across international lines and still maintain his classic, sophisticated look. Everyone can wear Ralph Lauren forever! You can’t say that about most designers
I’d have to say Christobal Balenciaga. He taught fashion design classes that brought inspiration to other designers such as Oscar De La Renta. He was known for his distinctive cut clothing and his usual designs in handbags.The Balenciaga fashion house now belongs to the Gucci Group.
His style lives on!
I’m not sure if anyone will agree with me, but when it comes to suites, I’m a fan of Hugo Boss. Always a classic.