Top 100 Most Influential Luxury Professionals in the World 2025

The global luxury industry is reaching new heights in 2025, powered by a blend of heritage brands, visionary creatives, and dynamic executives steering an ever-evolving market. Despite economic headwinds, the overall luxury market hit a record €1.5 trillion in 2023, growing about 8–10% over the prior year. A post-pandemic surge in demand – from luxury cars and fashion to hospitality and experiences – underscored the sector’s resilience and “unparalleled” momentum. Asian markets, especially China, have reasserted their dominance, now expected to account for roughly a quarter of global luxury goods sales by 2025. Europe’s storied maisons are benefiting from revived tourism, while North America sees a slight cooling as aspirational shoppers turn cautious. Crucially, the spending power of Generation Z and Millennials is rising fast, driving trends toward digital integration, high-profile brand collaborations, and a “rejuvenation” of luxury’s creative direction. Gen Y and Z together are set to make up over half of luxury consumers in 2025, pushing brands to innovate and engage via online platforms, metaverse experiments, and fresh in-store experiences blending physical and digital touchpoints. At the same time, luxury’s top clientele – high-net-worth individuals across the globe – continue to fuel growth, with markets like Saudi Arabia and Southeast Asia emerging as new hotspots for elite spending.

In response to these shifts, the leadership of the luxury world is undergoing a transformative changing of the guard. Several legendary designers and CEOs have passed the torch to a new generation of talent in recent years, while others are doubling down on bold strategies. Mega-conglomerates in Europe are expanding through strategic acquisitions and investments – exemplified by Kering’s purchase of a 30% stake in Valentino in 2023 – and U.S.-based giants are merging to compete on a global scale. Digital natives like Farfetch are reshaping distribution (even as partnerships with traditional players evolve), and innovators in sustainability and inclusion are influencing how luxury defines its future values. Notably, historic houses are embracing celebrity creative directors and collaborators – from musicians to influencers – signaling an industry open to new ideas that resonate with younger audiences. Meanwhile, the world’s wealthiest individuals, such as LVMH’s Bernard Arnault and Kering’s François-Henri Pinault, have seen their influence swell along with their fortunes, underscoring luxury’s ascent as a powerhouse sector. Importantly, more women and diverse voices are rising to prominent roles, from female CEOs at major fashion houses to designers of color reinventing storied brands. As we enter the mid-2020s, the following Top 100 ranking spotlights the executives, founders, designers, and visionaries who are steering the global luxury industry to new horizons. These individuals – listed in order of influence – represent the pinnacle of luxury leadership in 2025, each with a biography reflecting their professional journey and the impact they wield in this $1.5 trillion industry.

The 2025 Luxury Leaders Ranking

1. Bernard Arnault – Chairman & CEO, LVMH (France). The undisputed titan of luxury, Arnault oversees LVMH Moët Hennessy Louis Vuitton’s empire of 75 brands spanning fashion, jewelry, wines, and more. Under his strategic vision, LVMH has achieved record revenue and profit, buoyed by blockbuster labels like Louis Vuitton, Dior, and Tiffany & Co. (which LVMH acquired for $15.8 billion in 2021). In 2023, Arnault briefly became the world’s richest person, reflecting the booming value of his conglomerate. Renowned for his shrewd acquisitions and emphasis on brand heritage, he has also laid groundwork for succession by involving his children in top roles. Arnault’s influence on global luxury – from setting industry growth trajectories to redefining luxury retail experiences – remains unparalleled in 2025.
2. François-Henri Pinault – Chairman & CEO, Kering (France). At the helm of Kering, Pinault has transformed his family’s firm into a modern luxury powerhouse rivaling LVMH. He has championed a shift toward high-end fashion and sustainability, divesting non-core businesses and investing in star brands like Gucci, Saint Laurent, Bottega Veneta, and Balenciaga. Under Pinault’s leadership, Kering boldly acquired a 30% stake in Italy’s Valentino in 2023 – expanding its portfolio and signaling intent to compete across all luxury categories. Known for empowering creative talents (he backed Gucci’s meteoric rise under Alessandro Michele and later ushered in Sabato De Sarno’s new vision), Pinault blends business acumen with an instinct for cultural relevance. His influence extends beyond fashion: through the Pinault family holding (Groupe Artémis), he invests in art (Christie’s auction house) and entertainment (recently taking a majority stake in Creative Artists Agency), positioning Kering at the nexus of luxury, art, and celebrity. In 2025, Pinault stands as one of the most influential figures steering luxury’s future.
3. Johann Rupert – Chairman, Richemont (South Africa). Rupert is the architect of Compagnie Financière Richemont, the Swiss-based luxury conglomerate behind many of the world’s premier jewelry and watch Maisons. He founded Richemont in 1988, leveraging his family’s Rembrandt Group assets to assemble illustrious names like Cartier, Van Cleef & Arpels, Jaeger-LeCoultre, and Piaget. As Chairman, Rupert has guided Richemont’s strategy of focusing on high-end “hard luxury” and selective fashion maisons (such as Chloé and Alaïa), maintaining an ethos of long-term brand stewardship. In recent years, he spearheaded efforts to modernize Richemont’s digital capabilities – including a (now-revised) partnership with Farfetch for online retail – reflecting his recognition of e-commerce’s growing role in luxury. A cautious dealmaker, Rupert nevertheless made waves by divesting a stake in Net-a-Porter and bringing in tech partners to advance omni-channel retail. With decades of industry experience, Rupert’s voice carries significant weight in global luxury discourse, and his stewardship of Richemont’s heritage brands keeps him among the sector’s most influential leaders.
4. Leena Nair – Global CEO, Chanel (UK/India). A trailblazer in the luxury world, Leena Nair became the first female and first Asian CEO of iconic fashion house Chanel in January 2022. A British-Indian business leader with a background at Unilever, Nair was an unconventional pick to lead Chanel’s $10 billion empire – precisely the bold choice the French maison embraced to future-proof its operations. Since taking the helm, she has focused on balancing Chanel’s timeless allure (from No.5 perfume to 2.55 handbags) with forward-looking strategies in sustainability and digital engagement. Nair has strengthened the brand’s commitment to diversity and inclusion internally, while expanding its presence in booming markets like China. Her outsider perspective and people-centric leadership (honed as Unilever’s Chief Human Resources Officer) have infused Chanel with fresh organizational dynamism. Working alongside Chanel’s owners (the Wertheimer family) and its creative leaders, Nair is ensuring that the nearly century-old house remains at the forefront of luxury – making her one of the most closely watched executives in fashion.
5. Axel Dumas – CEO, Hermès International (France). A sixth-generation family heir of Hermès, Axel Dumas has led the venerable Parisian house since 2013, maintaining its reputation as the pinnacle of craftsmanship and exclusivity. Under Dumas’ stewardship, Hermès has seen remarkable growth while upholding its artisanal traditions – from handbags and silk scarves to jewelry and homewares. He famously caps production of the coveted Birkin and Kelly bags to preserve their rarity, contributing to sky-high demand and years-long waitlists. Dumas has also overseen Hermès’ expansion into new categories (like beauty with Hermès perfumes and lipsticks) and new markets, including a deeper penetration into China’s luxury consumer base. The company’s value has soared during his tenure, reflecting a halo effect from its uncompromising quality and timeless design ethos. Axel Dumas’ influence lies in proving that patience and heritage – “maintaining our craftsmanship is our greatest weapon,” he notes – can triumph in an age of fast trends. His steady leadership keeps Hermès among the world’s most admired luxury firms.
6. Delphine Arnault – CEO, Christian Dior Couture (France). The eldest child of Bernard Arnault, Delphine Arnault has emerged as a powerful luxury leader in her own right. Appointed CEO of Dior in 2023, she became the first woman to helm the storied French couture house. Delphine earned her stripes over a decade at Louis Vuitton, where as Executive Vice President she oversaw product and expanded the brand’s leather goods success. She also played a key role in nurturing young design talent via the LVMH Prize. Now at Dior’s helm, she manages one of the group’s crown jewels – spanning women’s and men’s fashion, haute couture, and accessories – and collaborates with star creatives like Maria Grazia Chiuri and Kim Jones. Delphine’s keen understanding of brand heritage and modern luxury consumers positions her to drive Dior’s continued growth (which has been robust, with Dior becoming a €8 billion-plus megabrand under LVMH). As part of LVMH’s next-generation leadership, she also sits on the conglomerate’s executive committee. Her ascent signals the Arnault family’s deepening legacy, and she commands significant influence as a champion of both innovation and tradition at Dior.
7. Pietro Beccari – CEO, Louis Vuitton (Italy). An Italian executive with a marketing background, Pietro Beccari was tapped in 2023 to lead Louis Vuitton – LVMH’s flagship and the world’s biggest luxury brand. Beccari previously spent five successful years as CEO of Dior, where he energized the label with buzzy events and collaborations while driving strong sales growth. Now at Louis Vuitton, he oversees everything from the brand’s fashion and leather goods (the iconic monogram handbags) to its expanding jewelry, watches, and hospitality ventures. Known for his bold marketing moves, Beccari has already made headlines by appointing musician Pharrell Williams as Vuitton’s Men’s Creative Director and staging extravagant fashion shows (like Pharrell’s debut on Paris’s Pont Neuf). He’s also guiding the brand’s push into experiential retail, exemplified by the LV Dream exhibition in Paris and trendsetting flagship stores. With Louis Vuitton’s revenues surpassing $20 billion, Beccari’s remit is to keep the growth momentum while safeguarding brand prestige. His charismatic leadership and consumer insight make him one of 2025’s most influential luxury CEOs.
8. Nicolas Hieronimus – CEO, L’Oréal Groupe (France). As chief executive of L’Oréal since 2021, Nicolas Hieronimus sits atop the world’s largest beauty company, including its Luxury division which houses brands like Lancôme, Yves Saint Laurent Beauté, Giorgio Armani Beauty, and Kiehl’s. A L’Oréal veteran of over 30 years, Hieronimus rose through marketing ranks and led the Luxury and Selective divisions, sharpening his expertise in high-end skincare, fragrance, and cosmetics. Now he is steering L’Oréal’s global strategy in an era of tech-driven personalization and Chinese market growth. Under his leadership, L’Oréal has accelerated digital engagement (such as virtual try-ons and e-commerce) and sustainability efforts (aiming for green science innovations). The luxury arm has performed strongly, with Lancôme and YSL Beauty particularly thriving across Asia. Hieronimus’ influence stems from his ability to marry science-driven product innovation with aspirational branding – ensuring legacy names remain relevant to new generations. His perspective carries weight beyond beauty as well: given L’Oréal’s scale and marketing prowess, he’s a key voice in how luxury brands can craft narratives around empowerment and self-expression in 2025.
9. Fabrizio Freda – President & CEO, Estée Lauder Companies (Italy/USA). An Italian-born executive leading one of America’s iconic luxury beauty firms, Fabrizio Freda has been CEO of Estée Lauder since 2009. Under his tenure, Estée Lauder Companies (ELC) has more than doubled in value, powered by a portfolio of prestige brands including Estée Lauder, MAC, La Mer, Tom Ford Beauty, Clinique, and Jo Malone London. Freda’s strategy emphasizes innovation (investing in R&D for advanced skincare and makeup), digital first marketing, and strategic acquisitions – notably the 2023 landmark deal to acquire Tom Ford’s fashion and beauty operations, further solidifying ELC’s luxury dominance. He also expanded ELC’s footprint in Asia, making China a top market, and championed a focus on younger consumers through brands like The Ordinary (Deciem). Known for operational excellence and foresight, Freda successfully navigated the company through pandemic challenges with a robust pivot to e-commerce. In the luxury world, his influence is seen in how beauty has become an equal pillar to fashion in desirability and trendsetting. By blending family company values with global corporate acumen, Freda keeps Estée Lauder at the forefront of luxury beauty in 2025.
10. Marc Puig – Chairman & CEO, Puig (Spain). As the third-generation leader of his family’s Barcelona-based company, Marc Puig has quietly built Puig into a luxury goods heavyweight. Puig is the force behind renowned fashion and fragrance brands such as Carolina Herrera, Nina Ricci, Paco Rabanne, Jean Paul Gaultier, and Dries Van Noten – labels the company has acquired or nurtured. Under Marc Puig’s leadership, the firm has expanded internationally and diversified its portfolio, including a growing Beauty & Perfumes division that produces scents for Christian Louboutin and others. He spearheaded Puig’s majority stake investment in Charlotte Tilbury Beauty (furthering its high-end cosmetics reach) and forged partnerships to drive global expansion, especially in the U.S. and Asia. The company’s revenues have seen strong growth, and it crossed the €3 billion milestone, reflecting Marc Puig’s effective brand management. Despite being family-owned, Puig has embraced professional management and sustainability initiatives (aiming for carbon neutrality), under Marc’s guidance. His influence lies in championing creativity (he’s known to give designers like Dries Van Noten free rein) and in demonstrating that a mid-sized family firm can compete with the giants through focus and agility. In 2025, Marc Puig stands as a key global player, representing Spain on the luxury world stage.
11. Ermenegildo “Gildo” Zegna – CEO, Zegna Group (Italy). Gildo Zegna leads the eponymous Zegna Group, one of Italy’s oldest luxury menswear companies, which he has transformed into a modern, diversified luxury group. As CEO since 1997, Zegna has expanded the brand from its roots in fine suiting to a full lifestyle offering and taken bold steps such as acquiring Thom Browne (the edgy New York fashion brand) in 2018. In 2021, he took Zegna Group public on the New York Stock Exchange – a rare move for a family-owned Italian house – securing capital to fuel growth. Gildo Zegna emphasizes heritage (the company still sources wool from its own mills) while innovating with performance fabrics and sustainable textile production in Italy’s Piedmont region. In 2023, Zegna Group also partnered with Estée Lauder to co-acquire Tom Ford’s fashion operations, with Zegna now producing Tom Ford menswear. These moves position Zegna as a growing luxury conglomerate beyond menswear. Known for his suave diplomacy, Gildo has cultivated partnerships in China since the 1990s, giving Zegna a strong foothold there early on. His influence is notable as he pushes an agenda of sustainability and “slow luxury” in manufacturing, and as an advocate for Italian craftsmanship on the global stage.
12. Remo Ruffini – Chairman & CEO, Moncler (Italy). Remo Ruffini is the visionary credited with turning Moncler from a nearly bankrupt ski-wear label into one of the world’s most influential luxury fashion brands. After acquiring Moncler in 2003, Ruffini refocused it on its alpine heritage and quality, then propelled it to new heights through savvy marketing and innovation – such as the Moncler Genius program, which invited guest designers (from Pierpaolo Piccioli to Hiroshi Fujiwara) to reinvent Moncler’s down jackets in eclectic ways. This strategy created constant buzz and expanded Moncler’s appeal across style subcultures. Ruffini also led Moncler’s IPO in 2013 and oversaw strong global growth, including major presence in Asia and the U.S. In 2020, he doubled down on diversification by acquiring luxury sportswear brand Stone Island, integrating it into Moncler’s portfolio. His approach blends tradition with reinvention: iconic puffer coats remain the core, but collaborations (with artists, brands like Rimowa, and even release of an NFT collection) keep Moncler at the cutting edge. Remo Ruffini’s influence is evident in how many luxury brands emulate his collaboration-driven model and community-building around a brand. As an Italian entrepreneur who built a standalone brand into a €7+ billion company, he’s a standout figure in the luxury industry.
13. Brunello Cucinelli – Executive Chairman & Creative Director, Brunello Cucinelli (Italy). Often dubbed the “philosopher-designer” of luxury, Brunello Cucinelli is revered not only for his sumptuous cashmere clothing but also for his humanistic approach to business. He founded his namesake brand in 1978 with a vision of “human dignity” in the workplace, producing fine knitwear in the medieval village of Solomeo, which he revitalized. Now a publicly listed company, Brunello Cucinelli SpA is globally renowned for its quietly luxurious apparel – cashmere sweaters, tailored suits, and leisure wear in neutral palettes – epitomizing “stealth wealth” dressing. As Creative Director, Cucinelli ensures each collection reflects timeless elegance and superb craftsmanship, garnering a devoted following among affluent clients worldwide. As Executive Chairman, he champions ethical capitalism: reinvesting profits into community, limiting working hours for artisans, and promoting cultural projects (like libraries and theatres in Solomeo). This approach has set a benchmark for sustainability and corporate ethics in luxury. With sales and profits climbing steadily, Brunello’s brand thrives without flashy advertising, relying on quality and word-of-mouth prestige. His influence extends beyond fashion into the realm of corporate social responsibility – he’s frequently cited as an example that luxury and conscience can go hand in hand, making him one of the industry’s most respected figures.
14. Marco Gobbetti – CEO, Salvatore Ferragamo (Italy). Marco Gobbetti is a seasoned luxury executive known for transforming brands, now undertaking the task of revitalizing Salvatore Ferragamo – the famed Florentine house known for its shoes and leather goods. Gobbetti took the CEO helm at Ferragamo in 2021, after successful stints at Moschino, Givenchy, Céline (where he worked with Phoebe Philo) and, most recently, as CEO of Burberry. At Burberry, he pivoted the brand more upmarket and hired designer Riccardo Tisci, leading to improved fortunes. Now at Ferragamo, Gobbetti has already initiated a brand refresh: bringing in British designer Maximilian Davis (a rising star) as Creative Director in 2022 to inject youthful energy and modern style. He’s also sharpening Ferragamo’s retail strategy and digital presence, aiming to reconnect the nearly 100-year-old brand with contemporary luxury consumers. With his deep expertise in product strategy and positioning, Gobbetti is steering Ferragamo through a turnaround – early signs include a sleek new logo and well-received collections blending the brand’s heritage (like its iconic Vara pumps) with minimalist chic. Industry watchers credit Gobbetti’s leadership and discipline for setting Ferragamo on a path to regain market share. Given his track record of brand elevation, his influence remains formidable as he reshapes one of Italy’s storied luxury names.
15. Patrizio Bertelli – Co-CEO, Prada Group (Italy). A legend in the luxury business, Patrizio Bertelli has co-led Prada for decades, turning a once small Italian fashion house into a global luxury group. As the business brain (and husband) alongside designer Miuccia Prada, Bertelli was instrumental in Prada’s 1990s and 2000s expansion – launching Miu Miu, acquiring brands like Church’s and Jil Sander (since sold), and pioneering the high-fashion epicenter store concept with architecturally bold flagships. In recent years, Bertelli served as Prada’s sole CEO until 2023, when the company appointed a new top executive and announced a succession plan involving his son Lorenzo. Now holding a co-CEO title and focusing on the bigger strategic picture, Bertelli remains deeply involved in operations and manufacturing excellence (he’s known for his exacting standards and decisive management style). He successfully navigated Prada through challenges, including a dip in the mid-2010s and then a strong resurgence with younger consumers embracing Prada’s nylon and logo items. Prada’s return to growth – and buzz (helped by hit collections and savvy marketing like the Prada Linea Rossa reboot) – owes much to Bertelli’s financial acumen and willingness to adapt (for instance, accelerating e-commerce and sustainability goals). Even as he prepares to eventually hand over the reins, Patrizio Bertelli’s influence as a builder of one of luxury’s most distinguished empires endures in 2025.
16. Miuccia Prada – Co-CEO & Artistic Director, Prada (Italy). A fashion visionary, Miuccia Prada has been the creative force behind Prada since taking over her family’s Milanese leather goods house in 1978. Her intellectually rigorous approach to design – blending art, politics, and unconventional beauty – revolutionized fashion with iconic moments like the introduction of utilitarian nylon handbags in the 1980s and her subversive “ugly chic” aesthetic in ready-to-wear. Alongside her husband Patrizio Bertelli, Miuccia built Prada into a global luxury trendsetter spanning clothing, accessories, footwear, and more. She also founded the younger Miu Miu line, giving a platform for edgier, playful designs. After a few seasons of co-creative direction with Raf Simons (who joined in 2020 and departed in 2022), Miuccia Prada currently steers the brand’s design solo again, continuing to surprise with collections that often set the seasonal agenda in fashion (her take on uniforms, vintage revival, and minimalist elegance are closely watched). She holds the rare role of being Co-CEO of Prada Group as well, reflecting her involvement in broader company strategy and her stature in the industry. Miuccia is also a major cultural patron through the Fondazione Prada art foundation. Her influence on generations of designers is profound – many cite her work as formative – and in 2025 she remains one of the most respected and influential creative figures in luxury.
17. Domenico Dolce – Co-Founder & Designer, Dolce & Gabbana (Italy). As one half of the famous Dolce & Gabbana duo, Domenico Dolce has been at the forefront of Italian luxury fashion for nearly four decades. He and Stefano Gabbana launched their label in 1985, building it into a byword for sultry, baroque Sicilian style. Domenico, originally trained in his family’s tailoring business in Sicily, brings exceptional craftsmanship and an eye for sensual, figure-flattering design – from ornate lace dresses and corset dresses to sharp pinstriped suits. Even after weathering controversies and changing trends, Dolce & Gabbana remains a globally recognized brand with a loyal following and a sizable business spanning apparel, accessories, beauty, and even ventures into food and hospitality. Domenico plays a key role in the creative vision, emphasizing the brand’s Italian roots, Catholic imagery, and celebration of Mediterranean beauty. In recent years the duo has worked to modernize and embrace more inclusive messaging, while still staging extravagant shows (including Alta Moda couture extravaganzas in Italian landmarks). Domenico Dolce’s influence lies in shaping one of the most distinct aesthetic universes in luxury – one that continues to inspire fantasies of Italian romance and opulence. As of 2025, he remains co-creative director, and the brand’s decision to stay independent (not owned by a conglomerate) means his hands-on influence is as direct as ever over the company’s direction.
18. Stefano Gabbana – Co-Founder & Designer, Dolce & Gabbana (Italy). The other half of the Dolce & Gabbana partnership, Stefano Gabbana has been instrumental in creating the brand’s provocative, maximalist image. With a background in graphic design, Gabbana complements Domenico Dolce’s tailoring expertise with bold styling, marketing flair, and a finger on the pulse of pop culture. He has been a driving force behind D&G’s famously glamorous advertising campaigns and its forays dressing celebrity icons – from Hollywood starlets to music divas like Madonna (who famously wore their embellished bustiers). Together with Dolce, he’s expanded the brand’s empire to include perfumes (like the bestseller “Light Blue”), makeup, and high jewelry. Stefano also oversees the edgy diffusion line D&G (when it was active) and Dolce & Gabbana’s digital presence, which has engaged millions of younger fans. Despite some public relations missteps in recent years, Gabbana has worked to align the brand with charitable causes and Gen-Z preferences (including venturing into NFTs and metaverse projects for a time). His outspoken personality and unapologetic love of excess make him a distinctive figure in fashion. In 2025, Stefano Gabbana’s influence remains significant as he helps steer one of the last major founder-led luxury houses – ensuring that Dolce & Gabbana’s high-octane, sexy glamour continues to stand out in an industry increasingly focused on minimalism and streetwear.
19. Giorgio Armani – Founder & Designer, Armani (Italy). A living legend of fashion, Giorgio Armani has defined Italian luxury for over 45 years. Since launching his label in 1975, Armani’s name became synonymous with understated elegance, impeccable tailoring, and a timeless color palette (his signature greiges and neutrals). He revolutionized dressing with the unstructured power suit in the 1980s, liberating women from stiff tailoring and giving men a new relaxed silhouette – famously outfitting Hollywood (he designed Richard Gere’s wardrobe in American Gigolo) and beyond. Today, at over 80 years old, Armani remains actively involved as Creative Director of multiple lines: from the high-end Giorgio Armani Privé couture and Giorgio Armani collection to diffusion lines like Emporio Armani and Armani Exchange. He also built a lifestyle empire including fragrances, cosmetics, home decor, and hospitality (Armani hotels). One of the wealthiest men in fashion, he has kept his company independent, setting up a foundation to ensure its continuity. Armani’s influence is enormous: he set the template for modern luxury branding and proved that a single designer can expand into multiple arenas without diluting cachet. His timeless aesthetic still permeates red carpets and boardrooms alike (think of every elegant evening gown or perfectly cut suit – Armani is often the reference). As a mentor and patron (supporting young designers and cultural projects), Giorgio Armani’s role as an elder statesman of luxury is firmly established in 2025, and he continues to be revered worldwide.
20. Francesca Bellettini – President & CEO, Yves Saint Laurent (Italy). One of the highest-profile women in luxury leadership, Francesca Bellettini has been the CEO of Yves Saint Laurent (YSL) since 2013 and, as of 2023, also serves as Deputy CEO of parent company Kering, overseeing brand development across the group. At Saint Laurent, Bellettini engineered a striking turnaround and growth story: she took the reins when the brand was freshly rebranded from “YSL” to “Saint Laurent Paris” under designer Hedi Slimane’s vision, and proceeded to build it into a multi-billion-euro business. Her keen focus on elevating the brand’s exclusivity, investing in retail network expansion, and tightly managing product assortment (handbags and shoes became key growth drivers) paid off tremendously. Working with subsequent creative director Anthony Vaccarello, Bellettini has maintained Saint Laurent’s buzz and sales trajectory – making it Kering’s second-largest brand after Gucci. Her analytic yet agile approach, honed from previous finance roles at Prada and Helmut Lang, has set an example within the industry. In her expanded Kering role, she now lends her expertise to help other brands in the portfolio optimize their performance. Bellettini is widely respected for her blend of strategic rigor and appreciation for creative expression. As a female leader breaking glass ceilings (she’s often listed among the most powerful women in fashion), her influence in shaping both a storied house like Saint Laurent and the broader Kering strategy is highly significant in 2025.
21. Demna (Demna Gvasalia) – Creative Director, Balenciaga (Georgia). Known mononymously as Demna, the Georgian-born designer has been a disruptive force in luxury fashion. Since taking over as Creative Director of Balenciaga in 2015, Demna’s avant-garde vision and streetwear sensibility catapulted the historic Parisian house to new relevance. He ignited trends with ideas like oversized silhouettes, ironic logo flips (turning Bernie Sanders’ campaign graphics into a Balenciaga motif), and the now-ubiquitous luxury sneaker hype (e.g. the Triple S chunky sneakers). Balenciaga under Demna became a cultural phenomenon – collaborating with everyone from Crocs to Fortnite, and dressing celebrities like Kim Kardashian (famously in head-to-toe black at the Met Gala). In recent years, Demna navigated challenges after a controversial ad campaign in late 2022, issuing apologies and refocusing collections on Balenciaga’s couture heritage and exquisite tailoring as a reset. He remains at the helm, and his Fall 2023 couture and Winter 2024 shows signaled a creative evolution while retaining subversive touches. Demna’s influence extends beyond Balenciaga: he co-founded the cult label Vetements, which was at the vanguard of the luxury streetwear movement. His work has undeniably shaped the direction of 2010s and 2020s fashion, blurring lines between luxury and everyday wear, and even after turbulence, he is closely watched as a bellwether of where edgy, youth-driven luxury is heading.
22. Daniel Lee – Chief Creative Officer, Burberry (UK). Daniel Lee is a British designer whose career ascent has made him one of the most talked-about creatives in luxury. After honing his skills at houses like Celine (under Phoebe Philo), Lee took the fashion world by storm during his tenure as Creative Director of Bottega Veneta (2018–2021), where he rejuvenated the Italian brand with modern edge – introducing hit designs like the Pouch clutch and Lido sandals, and earning multiple CFDA/British Fashion Awards. In late 2022, Burberry appointed Daniel Lee as its new Chief Creative Officer, tasking him with reinvigorating the quintessential British luxury house. Lee’s debut for Burberry in 2023 featured bold spins on the brand’s heritage (think reimagined tartans, playful proportions, and nods to British subcultures), as well as a refreshed logo and campaign that signaled a younger, more fashion-forward Burberry. The industry is watching closely as Lee brings his knack for “new luxury” – melding streetwise sensibility with impeccable craftsmanship – to a global brand eager for a turnaround. Early signs, like the popularity of his new accessories (the hot water bottle-inspired slippers and check patterned totes), are promising. Given his track record of sparking trends (such as the frenzy for Bottega’s signature green and woven leather accessories), Daniel Lee’s influence is expected to be substantial in shaping Burberry’s new chapter and inspiring other heritage brands to take bold creative leaps.
23. Matthieu Blazy – Creative Director, Bottega Veneta (Belgium/France). Matthieu Blazy is the design talent carrying forward the momentum at Bottega Veneta, one of Italy’s most esteemed luxury brands. Having worked behind the scenes at Maison Margiela, Céline, and Calvin Klein (with Raf Simons), Blazy took the reins at Bottega Veneta in late 2021 after Daniel Lee’s departure. In a short time, he has won wide acclaim for honoring Bottega’s leather craftsmanship legacy while introducing imaginative twists. His debut collections were praised for their sophistication – from impeccably tailored coats to a trompe-l’œil “denim” print that turned out to be leather, showcasing Bottega’s workshop virtuosity. Blazy also brought back a touch of practicality and elegance that resonated with longtime clientele, ensuring the brand’s cult accessories (like the Cassette and Jodie bags) remain coveted without overt hype. Eschewing social media (Bottega infamously deleted its accounts during the Lee era), Blazy’s Bottega has nonetheless maintained strong cultural currency through physical experiences and word-of-mouth. With parent company Kering’s support, he’s expanding ready-to-wear and pushing artistic campaigns that emphasize quiet luxury. As a relatively young Creative Director in his 30s, Matthieu Blazy’s growing influence comes from proving his creative maturity – managing to satisfy both fashion insiders and the commercial bottom line. Under his guidance, Bottega Veneta continues to set trends (in color, texture, and minimalist design), securing his spot among 2025’s most significant designers.
24. Sabato De Sarno – Creative Director, Gucci (Italy). Sabato De Sarno is the latest creative mind entrusted with the direction of Gucci, one of the world’s most influential luxury fashion houses. Appointed in 2023 and debuting his first collection in September of that year, De Sarno came into the role after a period of transition (following Alessandro Michele’s celebrated but saturation-point tenure). An Italian designer with experience at Prada, Dolce & Gabbana, and most recently as a key design director at Valentino, De Sarno is seen as a steady hand to define Gucci’s next chapter. Early indications are that he aims to dial back some of the maximalist eccentricity of recent years in favor of a refined, elevated elegance – potentially echoing the Tom Ford era’s sexy glamour updated for modern tastes. The industry anticipates his vision will recalibrate Gucci’s aesthetic while still leveraging its rich archives (from equestrian motifs to 90s logos) in fresh ways. De Sarno’s influence will be quickly felt, as Gucci’s collections often set the tone for season trends and its products (handbags, shoes, ready-to-wear) drive significant business for parent Kering. Internally, he’s working closely with a new management team, as Gucci also saw a CEO change. With immense pressure to reignite Gucci’s growth engine (it’s a €10 billion+ brand that slightly slowed), Sabato De Sarno’s ability to capture consumer imagination is critical. If successful, his impact will confirm him as a major creative force defining luxury fashion in the mid-2020s.
25. Pharrell Williams – Men’s Creative Director, Louis Vuitton (USA). A globally famous musician and style icon, Pharrell Williams made headlines in 2023 when he was named the Men’s Creative Director at Louis Vuitton – a role previously held by the late Virgil Abloh. Pharrell is among the first celebrities without formal fashion training to take such a high-profile design position in luxury. However, his longtime personal flair and successful ventures (like streetwear brands Billionaire Boys Club and collaborations with Adidas) made him a compelling choice to lead the world’s top luxury brand’s menswear line. His debut collection, presented in a lavish show on Paris’s Seine River, was a spectacle of color, music, and inclusivity – featuring pixelated damier prints, gender-fluid silhouettes, and even a live performance by Pharrell’s own choir. The collection earned positive buzz for capturing joy and commercial appeal, blending Vuitton’s heritage motifs with Pharrell’s upbeat aesthetic. Beyond design, Pharrell’s cultural cachet and connection to younger consumers are huge assets for LVMH. He embodies the fusion of luxury with music, art, and street culture, and his influence is already drawing new audiences to Louis Vuitton. By 2025, Pharrell’s impact is seen in a broader trend of luxury embracing creative directors from diverse backgrounds (not just traditional ateliers). His work is closely watched as a barometer of how far cross-disciplinary creativity can push a heritage house while keeping its luxury essence intact.
26. Nicolas Ghesquière – Women’s Artistic Director, Louis Vuitton (France). One of the most respected designers of his generation, Nicolas Ghesquière has helmed Louis Vuitton’s womenswear since 2013, continually reinventing the DNA of the world’s most valuable luxury brand. Ghesquière first made his mark at Balenciaga in the early 2000s, where his futuristic cuts and bold silhouettes garnered critical acclaim and a cult following. At Louis Vuitton, he faced the challenge of elevating a leather-goods powerhouse into a fashion frontrunner – a mission he accomplished with aplomb. He introduced highly coveted new handbag lines (like the Twist and Capucines), integrated high-tech materials, and referenced everything from 18th-century French aristocracy to sci-fi futurism in his collections. His designs often set seasonal trends (for example, the resurgence of high-waisted trousers or sporty space-age sneakers). Working within a brand known for its monogram, Ghesquière has managed to both respect the iconic patterns and push the creative envelope, expanding ready-to-wear and footwear into significant businesses for Vuitton. As of 2025, with menswear under Pharrell Williams and womenswear under Ghesquière, Louis Vuitton boasts a powerhouse creative lineup. Ghesquière’s influence remains strong, as he continues to navigate the intersection of fashion and technology (experimenting with wearable tech, for instance) and influences a generation of designers who admire his forward-thinking yet wearable approach. His tenure proves that even in a commercially massive context, cutting-edge design can thrive and resonate globally.
27. Kim Jones – Artistic Director, Dior Men & Fendi Womenswear (UK). Kim Jones is a British designer whose versatile talent has led him to hold two major creative posts simultaneously, making him a unique figure in luxury. Since 2018, Jones has been Artistic Director of Dior Men, where he has invigorated the menswear line with youthful energy, art-world collaborations, and a bridge between streetwear and couture. He famously partnered with artist KAWS for his debut (bringing the art toy aesthetic into Dior’s world) and has since collaborated with artists like Daniel Arsham and Amoako Boafo, as well as brands and designers (a notable crossover was the Dior x Air Jordan sneaker which became a sensation). In 2020, Kim Jones added another role as Artistic Director of Fendi Womenswear (and couture), taking on the legacy of the late Karl Lagerfeld. At Fendi, he works on women’s ready-to-wear and haute couture alongside Silvia Venturini Fendi, blending Roman elegance with his contemporary touch – as seen in his celebrated Fendi Couture collections that have drawn celebrity clientele. Balancing two houses, Jones has shown an extraordinary work ethic and creative agility. His influence is vast: at Dior, he’s made luxury menswear a pop-culture talking point (even designing custom tour wardrobes for BTS), and at Fendi, he’s helping steer a revered Italian brand into its next era. Moreover, his earlier tenure at Louis Vuitton Men (2011–2018) – where he ushered in the famous LV x Supreme collaboration – already cemented him as a trailblazer. In 2025, Kim Jones stands as one of the preeminent designers shaping what men (and women) want to wear, adeptly juggling tradition and trend.
28. Maria Grazia Chiuri – Creative Director, Dior (Women’s) (Italy). Maria Grazia Chiuri made history in 2016 as the first woman to lead Dior’s women’s collections in the house’s then-70-year history. An alumna of Fendi and Valentino (where she co-led design for years), Chiuri brought a distinctly feminist perspective to Dior. Her very first collection featured the now-iconic “We Should All Be Feminists” t-shirt, signaling a commitment to female empowerment through fashion. Over her tenure, she has rejuvenated Dior’s prêt-à-porter and haute couture with a blend of house codes (the Bar jacket, delicate tulle gowns, Toile de Jouy prints) and modern sensibilities – like utilitarian boots, slogan-embroidered skirts, and explorations of global craftsmanship. Commercially, she introduced hit accessories such as the J’Adior pumps, the revamped Saddle bag (a 2000s relic she successfully resurrected), and the Book Tote. Chiuri often collaborates with women artists and curators for her runway shows’ staging and inspiration, reinforcing a dialogue between fashion and women’s voices. Under her design direction, Dior has consistently grown and remains a top brand for parent LVMH. Some critics find her work safe compared to more avant-garde peers, but her track record in appealing to customers – particularly a new generation of Dior devotees in Asia and the Middle East – is indisputable. In 2025, Maria Grazia Chiuri’s influence is marked by how she’s balanced Dior’s romantic heritage with messages of empowerment, paving the way for more women designers at the helm of major houses and proving that femininity and strength can be powerfully intertwined in luxury.
29. Pierpaolo Piccioli – Creative Director, Valentino (Italy). Pierpaolo Piccioli has elevated Valentino to new creative heights since becoming its sole Creative Director in 2016. Having first served as co-creative director alongside Maria Grazia Chiuri, Piccioli took on full leadership when Chiuri departed for Dior, and he has masterfully blended Valentino’s storied elegance with contemporary flair. His Valentino is romantic yet fresh – think voluminous haute couture gowns in daring colors (his all-magenta “Valentino Pink PP” collection for Fall 2022 sparked a hot-pink trend), edgy pairings of sneakers with couture, and campaigns embracing inclusivity and individuality. Piccioli’s work often pays homage to the house’s founder Valentino Garavani (for example, reimagining the classic V Logo and the signature Valentino red) while also pushing forward with modern motifs like poetic floral prints and streamlined silhouettes. Celebrities flock to his creations on red carpets (from Hollywood stars to K-pop idols), amplifying Valentino’s profile among younger consumers. The brand has performed strongly under his tenure, maintaining relevance and desirability in a competitive market. Piccioli himself has become an influential voice championing diversity in fashion – his casting of models of different ethnicities, ages, and body types in couture shows has set an example for other luxury houses. In 2025, with Valentino backed by both the Qatari investment fund Mayhoola and now an investment from Kering (which took a 30% stake), Pierpaolo Piccioli’s vision remains at the heart of the brand’s success. He’s widely regarded as one of the top designers of the decade, merging craftsmanship with humanity in his approach to luxury.
30. Hedi Slimane – Creative Director, Celine (France). Hedi Slimane is a name that has been synonymous with trend-setting, youth-driven luxury for over 20 years. Currently the Artistic, Creative & Image Director of Celine (since 2018), Slimane has imposed his distinctive vision on the once-classic French house, infusing it with rock-and-roll edge and Parisian cool. Known first for revolutionizing menswear at Dior Homme in the 2000s – where his skinny tailoring famously inspired a generation and even influenced menswear at rival houses – Slimane later turned to womenswear and photography, helming Saint Laurent from 2012 to 2016. At Saint Laurent, he dropped the “Yves”, relocated the design studio to Los Angeles, and ignited sales with his grunge-meets-luxe aesthetic (bohemian dresses, biker jackets, iconic Saint Laurent boots). At Celine, Hedi Slimane drew both criticism and praise for completely overhauling the brand established by Phoebe Philo, introducing a new logo and a retro-tinged, youth-centric style featuring slim suits, miniskirts, and indie music influences. Over time, his Celine has gained a strong following and robust growth, particularly in leather goods (like the Triomphe bag which riffs on a vintage Celine logo). Slimane’s influence extends beyond fashion design: he’s also a photographer and art director, crafting the entire visual identity of his brands, from campaigns to store design and even the music at shows. Though sometimes polarizing, Slimane remains one of the few designers who truly shift the fashion landscape with each tenure. In 2025, Celine’s rising performance under him underscores how his finger on the pulse of youthful rebellion continues to resonate in luxury.
31. Jonathan Anderson – Creative Director, Loewe & Founder, JW Anderson (UK). Jonathan “J.W.” Anderson is a Northern Irish designer known for his inventive, art-infused approach that straddles the line between avant-garde and commercial. Since 2013, he has been the Creative Director of Loewe, the Spanish luxury house under LVMH, while simultaneously steering his own London-based label JW Anderson. At Loewe, Anderson has utterly revitalized the 19th-century brand (known historically for leather craftsmanship) into a fashion-forward powerhouse celebrated for its quirky elegance and cultural cool. He introduced hit accessories like the Puzzle bag (a modern icon of design and ingenuity) and has made Loewe’s clothing must-see with experimental shapes, playful motifs (think elephants and quirky prints), and collaborations with artists and artisans around the world. Anderson’s Loewe runway shows and campaigns often have an artsy bent, reflecting his personal passion for art (he’s collaborated with ceramicists, curated art exhibitions, etc.). Meanwhile, with JW Anderson (in which LVMH also invested), he continuously pushes boundaries – famous moments include the ruffled skirt for men that sparked conversation on gender-fluid fashion. Anderson has won multiple Designer of the Year awards in the UK for both menswear and womenswear, a testament to his versatile talent. His influence in 2025 is evident as many design peers echo his fearless mixing of high and low, craft and tech (like Loewe’s recent use of 3D printing on runway pieces). Moreover, as Loewe experiences strong growth and buzz (especially among fashion-savvy millennials and Gen Z), Jonathan Anderson is cemented as one of the leading creative visionaries defining contemporary luxury.
32. Olivier Rousteing – Creative Director, Balmain (France). Olivier Rousteing is one of the most high-profile and pioneering young designers in luxury, having taken the creative helm of Balmain at just 25 years old in 2011. Over the past decade, he transformed Balmain into a celebrity and social media darling, leveraging what he dubbed the “Balmain Army” – a cadre of famous friends and muses (Rihanna, Kim Kardashian, Beyoncé, to name a few) who wore his daring, glamorous designs. Rousteing’s Balmain is known for ultra-sexy silhouettes, sharp shoulders, heavy embellishments, and a glitzy modern take on the house’s storied couture heritage. He was an early adopter of using Instagram to democratize and amplify a luxury brand’s message, amassing millions of followers himself and connecting directly with fans. Under his leadership, Balmain expanded globally and even entered new arenas (from Balmain’s affordable collaborations with H&M to launching accessories and cosmetics). In 2022, Balmain sold a majority stake to a Qatari-backed investment firm, giving the brand resources for further expansion, with Rousteing firmly at the creative helm. Notably, he’s one of the few Black designers leading a historic French house, and he has used his platform to advocate for diversity and inclusion in fashion. In 2025, Olivier Rousteing’s influence remains strong as he continues to reinvent Balmain’s identity (recent collections have incorporated more unisex and versatile pieces alongside the high-octane glamour). His pop-culture savvy approach has inspired other brands to embrace the power of celebrity and social media influence in driving luxury desirability.
33. Stella McCartney – Founder & Creative Director, Stella McCartney (UK). Stella McCartney is a trailblazer in luxury, having built her own fashion house grounded in an ethos of sustainability and cruelty-free practices long before those were industry buzzwords. The daughter of Beatle Paul McCartney and photographer Linda McCartney, Stella launched her label in 2001 after cutting her teeth at Chloé. She immediately stood out by refusing to use leather or fur in her designs – a stance that was radical in luxury at the time. Over the years, her brand (supported by Kering for a long period, and now independent with new investors) has proven that ethical fashion can be chic and commercially viable. Stella’s designs are known for their sharp tailoring, feminine silhouettes, and sporty touches (she famously designed the uniforms for Team GB at multiple Olympic Games). She has extended her sustainable philosophy into innovations in materials (promoting alternatives like vegetarian leather, recycled textiles) and supply chain transparency. Stella McCartney’s influence on the industry is profound: she helped push major conglomerates and fellow designers toward eco-conscious initiatives, essentially setting the agenda for luxury’s sustainability movement. In 2025, as regulations and consumer awareness around sustainability grow, Stella is often cited as the original pioneer who made it central to a luxury brand’s identity. Creatively, she continues to craft desirable collections and accessories (like the popular Falabella chain-trim tote made of vegan materials) that prove style and sustainability can go hand in hand. Her voice carries tremendous weight in conversations about fashion’s future and environmental responsibility.
34. Phoebe Philo – Founder & Creative Director, Phoebe Philo Studio (UK). Phoebe Philo is a British designer whose minimalist yet soulful aesthetic has influenced an entire generation. Rising to fame as Creative Director of Céline from 2008 to 2017, she cultivated a devoted following of women who adored her understated, impeccably tailored clothes and accessories (including the Trapeze and Luggage bags, and those beloved slip-on sneakers) – birthing the term “Philophile”. After a few years out of the spotlight, Philo announced the launch of her own namesake label under LVMH backing, with an anticipated debut in late 2023. The fashion world has been on the edge of its seat for Phoebe’s return, given her near-mythical status earned at Céline (and earlier at Chloé, where she also had a successful run, popularizing boho chic in the mid-2000s). Her personal approach — designing clothes she, as a modern woman, would want to wear — created a new language of luxury that was both practical and deeply sophisticated. As she steps back into the arena with Phoebe Philo Studio, expectations are high that she will once again shape trends, focusing on quality, longevity, and quiet confidence in fashion. Even during her absence, many brands attempted to capture a “Philo-esque” sensibility, proving her impact. In 2025, with her own line likely in full swing, Phoebe Philo’s influence is peaking anew as she sets her own terms for what contemporary luxury style means, likely sparking another wave of minimalist-chic across the industry.
35. Rei Kawakubo – Founder & Designer, Comme des Garçons (Japan). An avant-garde icon, Rei Kawakubo has been challenging fashion’s conventions for over 40 years with her label Comme des Garçons. Based in Tokyo and Paris, Kawakubo approaches clothing as wearable art – her collections often feature radical forms, intentional “imperfections,” and conceptual themes that defy traditional notions of beauty. Ever since her explosive Paris debut in 1981 (where her distressed, deconstructed garments in black shocked the establishment and were dubbed “Hiroshima chic”), Rei has continually pushed boundaries. Not only through her main Comme des Garçons line, but also via myriad diffusion lines and collaborations, she has built an empire that includes the pioneering multi-brand retail concept Dover Street Market, which she co-founded with her husband Adrian Joffe. Dover Street Market’s curated mix of established and emerging designers in an artful retail setting revolutionized how luxury retail is experienced. Kawakubo is famously press-shy and lets her work speak for itself – and it has: the Metropolitan Museum of Art honored her with a solo exhibition in 2017 (a rare accolade for a living designer). Her influence is seen in how countless designers cite her as an inspiration for breaking rules, and how many mainstream trends (from oversized silhouettes to asymmetrical cuts) trickle down from her once-radical ideas. In 2025, even as she is in her 80s, Rei Kawakubo remains an almost spiritual leader of fashion’s avant-garde, and her Comme des Garçons continues to be an independent force proving that intellectual creativity and commercial success can co-exist in luxury.
36. Ralph Lauren – Executive Chairman & Chief Creative Officer, Ralph Lauren Corporation (USA). A true American fashion legend, Ralph Lauren has defined the aspirational lifestyle aesthetic through his eponymous brand over the past five decades. From a humble start selling ties in 1967, he built a global empire that epitomizes East Coast prep, classic elegance, and the romance of the American Dream. The Polo Ralph Lauren polo shirt and pony logo are among the most recognizable symbols in fashion worldwide. As Chief Creative Officer, Lauren’s touch extends across a spectrum of labels (Polo, Collection, Double RL, Lauren, etc.), home furnishings, restaurants, and more – all reflecting a cohesive vision of timeless style. Even as the company has become a massive public corporation, Ralph Lauren himself (now Executive Chairman) remains the driving creative force, ensuring the brand’s DNA is consistent. His fashion shows often evoke cinematic nostalgia, from country club chic to Southwestern ranch looks, reinforcing an idyllic lifestyle that customers buy into as much as the products. Lauren’s influence on the industry is enormous: he set the template for fashion as a holistic lifestyle brand, inspiring countless designers and brands to think beyond clothing into an entire world-building exercise. He also demonstrated the longevity and adaptability of American sportswear. In 2025, as new generations discover vintage Polo and the company invests in digital innovation, Ralph Lauren’s iconic status only grows. He stands as an elder statesman of luxury, proving that authenticity and storytelling can make a brand endure for over half a century.
37. Marc Jacobs – Designer & Creative Director, Marc Jacobs (USA). Marc Jacobs is the influential New York designer whose career has spanned leading a major European house and building his own label – all while continually shaping fashion trends. He first gained fame in the 1990s for his “grunge” collection at Perry Ellis, and subsequently became Creative Director of Louis Vuitton (1997–2013), where he transformed the luggage-maker into a fashion powerhouse with artful collaborations (Stephen Sprouse graffiti monogram, Takashi Murakami’s colorful logos). Simultaneously, Jacobs nurtured his namesake line, Marc Jacobs, known for its quirky-cool downtown vibe, and the more affordable Marc by Marc Jacobs line which was a staple for millennials in the 2000s. Though his brand faced ups and downs after his exit from Vuitton, Marc Jacobs reinvented it by launching hit items like the “Snapshot” camera bag and the Heaven by Marc Jacobs streetwear-inspired sub-line catering to Gen Z, reigniting buzz. Marc’s personal style and persona – he’s a celebrity in his own right – have kept him in the public eye (whether through his bold kilt outfits or his candid social media presence). As a designer, he’s celebrated for his eclectic references and showmanship (each of his runway shows is a highlight of New York Fashion Week, often with grand themes and sets). In 2025, Marc Jacobs remains a creative force. He’s influencing fashion’s embrace of nostalgia (reviving trends from the ’90s and Y2K with authenticity, since he was originally part of them) and continuing to mentor young talent. With decades of iconic moments (from the “Grunge” collection to starring campaigns of celebs before it was common), Marc Jacobs’s mark on luxury and pop culture is indelible and ongoing.
38. Donatella Versace – Chief Creative Officer, Versace (Italy). Donatella Versace has been the guardian and driving force of the Versace brand since the tragic loss of her brother, Gianni Versace, in 1997. Taking over the creative direction of the house, she kept Versace’s bold and glamorous spirit alive while evolving it for new eras. Donatella’s Versace maintains the signature sex appeal – slinky dresses, baroque prints, Medusa logos, and rock ‘n’ roll attitude – that made the brand an icon of the ’80s and ’90s, but she also injects modern sensibilities and has embraced pop culture moments to propel the brand. Memorable highlights of her tenure include the jaw-dropping reunion of supermodels for Versace’s Spring 2018 show (in tribute to Gianni), and Jennifer Lopez wearing the reimagined jungle-print dress in 2019, which “broke the internet” two decades after the original moment. Donatella has also fostered young design talent through collaborations (like inviting the late Virgil Abloh to design a menswear capsule in 2019) and recently teaming Versace with Fendi in a creative swap known as “Fendace” that created huge buzz. She is a fashion personality in her own right – instantly recognizable with her platinum blonde hair and glamorous style, beloved by celebrities (who often refer to her simply as “Donatella”). Under her leadership, Versace has seen a resurgence, leading to its acquisition by Michael Kors’ Capri Holdings in 2018. Now part of a larger group, the brand continues to thrive and expand, including ventures into home decor and hotels. In 2025, Donatella Versace’s influence is cemented as both a steward of a legendary brand and a symbol of female leadership in luxury. Her ability to keep Versace vibrant and relevant through decades of changing fashions attests to her enduring impact.
39. Tom Ford – Founder & Designer, Tom Ford (USA). Tom Ford is a name synonymous with modern glamour and reinvention. Bursting onto the scene in the 1990s as Creative Director of Gucci (and later also Yves Saint Laurent), he famously revived Gucci from near-bankruptcy into one of the sexiest, most successful brands of the era with his provocative, glossy aesthetic. After leaving the Kering fold in 2004, Ford embarked on building his own eponymous empire. Starting with cosmetics and eyewear and then launching menswear in 2007 followed by womenswear, Tom Ford became a byword for high-octane luxury – impeccably tailored suits, sultry evening gowns, and a boldly hedonistic spirit. His brand’s perfumes (like Black Orchid and Tuscan Leather) and makeup (with its slick packaging) achieved cult status, often selling out upon release. In parallel, Ford ventured into film directing (A Single Man, Nocturnal Animals), showing his creative versatility. By 2023, Tom Ford the brand had grown so attractive that Estée Lauder Companies acquired it in a blockbuster $2.8 billion deal, with Zegna Group taking on its fashion production. Ford has since stepped away from daily design duties after the sale, but remains an iconic figure. As chairman of the Council of Fashion Designers of America (CFDA) from 2019–2022, he also influenced American fashion’s direction, pushing for more excitement and glamour on the New York runway. In 2025, even if not at the helm of a brand, Tom Ford’s legacy permeates the industry – the “Gucci look” of the ’90s and his pioneering of the see-now-buy-now model at his own brand have left lasting imprints. His mastery of brand-building and understanding of sexy sophistication make him an enduring reference point in luxury.
40. Sue Y. Nabi – CEO, Coty Inc. (Algeria/France). Sue Nabi is a prominent beauty industry executive who in recent years has taken on the challenge of turning around Coty Inc., one of the world’s largest beauty companies with a portfolio of luxury and mass brands. Algerian-born and French-raised, Nabi had a distinguished career at L’Oréal (rising to President of Lancôme) before co-founding her own luxury skincare line, Orveda. In 2020, she was appointed CEO of Coty, becoming one of the few transgender chief executives in the Fortune 500 and immediately one of the highest-profile women in the beauty business. At Coty, which owns brands like Gucci Beauty, Burberry Beauty, Chloé, Calvin Klein fragrances, and also covers mass-market names like CoverGirl, Nabi has focused on streamlining operations, improving product innovation, and expanding in skincare – all to rejuvenate growth and reduce Coty’s heavy debt. Under her leadership, the company’s financials have shown improvement, and strategic moves (like relaunching CoverGirl with a focus on diversity, and leveraging the Kylie Cosmetics and KKW Beauty partnerships) have been underway. In luxury, Sue Nabi’s role is significant as she steers licensed beauty lines of major fashion houses, ensuring they align with the prestige and creative vision of those brands. Known for her sharp marketing insights and passion for product quality, she’s considered a driving force in aligning Coty’s offerings with today’s luxury consumer expectations (especially Gen Z). By 2025, Sue Nabi’s influence is felt not only in Coty’s rising fortunes but also in the broader beauty and fashion dialogue around inclusivity, representation, and the merging of high fashion aesthetics with beauty products.
41. Imran Amed – Founder & CEO, The Business of Fashion (Canada/UK). Imran Amed is an influential industry commentator and entrepreneur who has reshaped how fashion professionals and enthusiasts consume industry news. He founded The Business of Fashion (BoF) in 2007 as a blog, which has since grown into the preeminent media and analysis platform for the fashion and luxury industry. With a background in management consulting (and an MBA from Harvard), Amed applied a business rigor to fashion coverage that was relatively new at the time. BoF’s blend of breaking news, in-depth trend reports, career advice, and indices like the BoF 500 (an annual list of key industry people) has made it an indispensable resource worldwide. Imran Amed, as its CEO and editor-in-chief, has built a community around BoF, hosting must-attend events such as BoF VOICES and summits that bring together CEOs, creatives, and entrepreneurs to discuss the future of fashion. His interviews with power players (available via BoF’s podcast and YouTube) are widely watched – he has a knack for asking incisive questions. Amed’s influence lies in the way he has democratized insider knowledge; aspiring designers or curious consumers in any country can access high-quality information about luxury’s inner workings through BoF. In 2025, Imran Amed stands as a key opinion leader who can shape industry conversations on topics like sustainability, tech disruption, and diversity. Luxury executives pay attention to BoF’s coverage and opinion pieces, often responding or adjusting strategies accordingly. By professionalizing fashion journalism and analysis, Amed has ensured that critical scrutiny and informed dialogue are now central in the luxury fashion ecosystem.
42. Anna Wintour – Global Editorial Director, Vogue (USA/UK). Arguably the most famous editor in the world, Dame Anna Wintour has been a defining voice in fashion for over 30 years. As Editor-in-Chief of Vogue (US) since 1988 and now also the Worldwide Chief Content Officer for Condé Nast (overseeing all Vogue editions globally), Wintour wields tremendous influence in luxury and beyond. Her trademark bob haircut and sunglasses are instantly recognizable, as is her reputation for exacting standards (famously depicted in popular culture). Wintour has used Vogue’s pages to champion designers – a cover or feature can catapult a brand or model to international fame – and has played kingmaker to many American and British designers, offering mentorship and support (through initiatives like the CFDA/Vogue Fashion Fund). She’s also been a key figure in bringing fashion into the celebrity era by putting Hollywood stars and music icons on Vogue covers, thus intertwining the entertainment and luxury fashion worlds. Additionally, Wintour is the co-chair of the prestigious Met Gala, turning it into fashion’s biggest annual event and fundraiser, where her influence decides themes and guest list. In the corporate realm, she now guides content strategy for Condé Nast’s global stable of magazines, steering Vogue through digital transformation. While the media landscape has changed, Wintour’s endorsements and opinions still carry considerable weight with both consumers and industry leaders. In 2025, she continues to use her platform to encourage sustainability and diversity (promising more representation on covers and content), albeit not without criticism or pressure to evolve. Nevertheless, Anna Wintour’s legacy as a tastemaker and power broker in luxury fashion remains firmly intact, making her one of the most influential figures of the era.
43. Edward Enninful – Editor, British Vogue & European Editorial Director, Vogue (UK). Edward Enninful has risen as a significant force in fashion media, celebrated for ushering in a new era of inclusivity and representation at British Vogue. Appointed Editor-in-Chief of British Vogue in 2017 (the first Black man to hold the role), Enninful wasted no time transforming the magazine’s look and ethos – featuring a more diverse array of cover stars (from Rihanna to British activists and healthcare workers), and content that mixes high fashion with social commentary. Under his direction, British Vogue’s influence soared, appealing to a broader audience and often achieving virality (for instance, the September 2019 issue guest-edited by Meghan Markle gained global attention). In 2020, he was additionally named European Editorial Director for Vogue in markets including France, Italy, Germany, and Spain, as Condé Nast consolidated its operations – giving him sway over content beyond the UK. Enninful, originally a model-turned-stylist from Ghana who became fashion director at i-D magazine at just 18, brought to Vogue a savvy understanding of street culture and luxury’s intersection, as well as an address book filled with both industry legends and emerging talents. He has championed designers of color and highlighted issues like racism and body positivity within the pages of Vogue, aligning high fashion with the conversations of the day. In 2025, Edward Enninful’s star remains bright, even as he transitions from the British Vogue editorship (he’s moving into a global creative position at Condé Nast). Many speculate about his next moves (some say he could venture into TV or other media), but regardless, his impact on redefining what a fashion authority can be – more inclusive, socially aware, and still aspirational – has firmly taken root in the luxury fashion landscape.
44. Angelica Cheung – Venture Partner & ex-Editor, Vogue China (China). Often referred to as the “Dragon Lady” of Chinese fashion, Angelica Cheung has played a pivotal role in the development of China as a powerhouse in the luxury fashion market. She was the founding Editor-in-Chief of Vogue China in 2005 and led the magazine for 16 years, during which it became one of Vogue’s most important editions by readership and influence, given China’s booming luxury consumer base. Cheung’s Vogue China adeptly bridged Eastern and Western fashion worlds, often featuring Chinese models, actresses, and imagery in a way that resonated with local readers while drawing the attention of global luxury brands. She nurtured home-grown Chinese design talent, giving them a platform alongside international names, which helped elevate designers like Huishan Zhang and Guo Pei on the world stage. After leaving Vogue China in 2021, Angelica Cheung joined venture capital firm Sequoia Capital as a venture partner focusing on fashion and lifestyle – a move that underscores the growing nexus between fashion and tech/startups in China. In this role, she’s influencing the next generation of fashion-tech companies and retail innovators, using her deep industry knowledge. Cheung’s insider status and vast network mean she remains a key advisor for brands seeking success in the Chinese market. In 2025, her influence is seen both in the sustained strength of Chinese representation in luxury (from brand campaigns to executive roles) – a wave she helped initiate – and in the cutting-edge fashion tech trends emerging from Asia, which she might be quietly backing. As the luxury industry’s center of gravity increasingly shifts eastward, voices like Angelica Cheung’s are integral in guiding that evolution.
45. Patrick Chalhoub – Co-CEO, Chalhoub Group (UAE). Patrick Chalhoub is a central figure in luxury retail across the Middle East. As co-CEO of the Chalhoub Group, a family-run enterprise based in Dubai, he oversees one of the region’s largest luxury distribution and retail companies, which has been instrumental in bringing top luxury brands to the Gulf for decades. Chalhoub Group operates franchises and joint ventures for a roster of brands – from Louis Vuitton to Dior to Rolex – and runs its own retail chains like Level Shoes (a 96,000-square-foot luxury shoe store in Dubai) and Tryano department store. Under Patrick Chalhoub’s leadership, the group has expanded into e-commerce and omni-channel initiatives, anticipating the digital shift among Middle Eastern luxury consumers. He’s also placed emphasis on insights and data about the Middle Eastern customer, often sharing such knowledge at industry forums, thereby influencing how brands tailor their approach to the market. Patrick, along with his brother Anthony, has fostered home-grown talent and concept stores as well, reflecting a growing luxury scene beyond just imports. In 2025, as the Gulf countries (especially UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Qatar) see rapid growth in high-end retail and tourism, Patrick Chalhoub’s influence is evident in the group’s partnerships and new mall developments (like Fashion Avenue in Dubai Mall) that shape the region’s luxury landscape. His relationships with brand CEOs and understanding of cultural nuances make him a key conduit for luxury’s success in the Middle East. Additionally, as a champion of sustainability and innovation, he’s steering Chalhoub Group to align with global luxury’s future-facing agendas, further cementing his role as the Middle East’s luxury ambassador on the world stage.
46. Adrian Cheng – CEO, New World Development & Founder, K11 (Hong Kong). Adrian Cheng is a Hong Kong entrepreneur and cultural visionary bridging the worlds of luxury retail, art, and real estate. As CEO of New World Development (a major property empire founded by his family), Cheng has been reshaping the concept of the luxury shopping mall through his creation of K11, a series of art-focused retail complexes in Hong Kong and mainland China. His K11 Malls – part gallery, part shopping center – exemplify “retail-tainment” by seamlessly integrating contemporary art installations, local culture, and high-end stores. This has proven particularly effective with young Chinese consumers seeking experiences alongside luxury purchases. Cheng’s foresight in mixing art and commerce extends to establishing the K11 Art Foundation, supporting emerging Chinese artists and collaborating with international institutions (like the Palais de Tokyo). Beyond retail, Adrian Cheng has invested in tech startups and fashion ventures (he was an early investor in The Business of Fashion and has backed fashion brands and e-commerce platforms), highlighting his role in shaping luxury’s future ecosystem. He’s also behind the high-profile Victoria Dockside development on Hong Kong’s waterfront, which includes a Rosewood Hotel and the K11 Musea – a cultural-retail hub. Cheng’s influence in 2025 is multifaceted: he’s driving a new model of luxury consumption in Greater China that fuses lifestyle, creativity, and community. His projects often predict or set trends in how luxury environments are conceived (we see more malls globally trying to incorporate art and unique experiences). Additionally, as someone deeply plugged into the habits of China’s millennial and Gen Z luxury shoppers, his perspective is valued by global luxury executives. In summary, Adrian Cheng stands out as a next-gen business leader modernizing how luxury is presented and perceived in Asia.
47. Guo Pei – Haute Couture Designer (China). Guo Pei is China’s most renowned couturier, celebrated for bringing Chinese high fashion into the global spotlight. With a career spanning over 20 years designing ornate, handcrafted gowns in Beijing, she became known to the wider world when Rihanna wore her imperial yellow, fur-trimmed cape gown to the 2015 Met Gala – a moment that went viral and introduced Guo Pei’s work to millions. In 2016, she was invited as a guest member of the Chambre Syndicale de la Haute Couture, presenting her collections on the Paris Haute Couture Week calendar – the first Chinese national to do so – thus cementing her status among the world’s elite designers. Guo Pei’s creations are marked by extraordinary craftsmanship, drawing on Chinese imperial references, folklore, and architecture, often weighing dozens of kilograms due to heavy embroidery and beading done by hand. She has helped revive and maintain traditional techniques, employing skilled artisans to realize her fantastical visions. As China’s ultra-wealthy have grown more interested in domestic designers, Guo Pei has also built a loyal clientele at home, even as she dazzles the West. Her work is frequently displayed in museum exhibitions around the world, underscoring its artistic significance. In 2025, Guo Pei’s influence resonates in how Eastern design elements (from Ming dynasty motifs to Chinese bridal traditions) are increasingly finding a place in global luxury collections, as well as in inspiring other Asian designers to strive for couture-level excellence. She stands as a symbol of Chinese creative prowess in luxury fashion, merging cultural heritage with high glamour, and continues to inspire awe with each elaborate collection she unveils.
48. Sabyasachi Mukherjee – Founder & Designer, Sabyasachi (India). Sabyasachi Mukherjee is India’s most famous luxury fashion designer and a driving force putting Indian craftsmanship on the global map. Since launching his label in 1999, Sabyasachi – often known just by his first name – has become synonymous with high-end Indian bridal wear and opulent traditional clothing, beloved by Bollywood stars, Indian elite, and increasingly international clients. His designs celebrate India’s rich textile and embroidery heritage: exquisite hand-dyed silk lehengas, sarees with intricate zardozi work, and sherwanis adorned with regal motifs. Beyond fashion, Sabyasachi has expanded into fine jewelry, accessories, and even a collaboration with Christian Louboutin (melding Louboutin’s iconic red soles with Sabyasachi’s embroideries). In 2021, he caught global attention through a collaboration with H&M that brought his aesthetic to a broader audience, and the same year he sold a stake of his company to Indian conglomerate Aditya Birla Fashion, signaling ambitions to scale up. He also opened a flagship in New York, marking a bold step into Western markets. Sabyasachi’s influence is profound in South Asia: he’s set the bar for luxury in a region where bespoke, hand-crafted fashion has always been part of the culture, bridging it with modern marketing and retail experiences (his stores are beautifully designed, almost museum-like). As Western luxury brands seek to appeal to Indian consumers, many have taken cues from his success in mixing storytelling, heritage, and aspirational branding. By 2025, with India’s luxury market growing, Sabyasachi stands as an ambassador of Indian design globally – his pieces even appearing on international red carpets and in exhibitions. He exemplifies how embracing one’s own culture can create a unique, globally compelling luxury brand.
49. Sheikha Moza bint Nasser – Chair of Qatar Foundation & Luxury Patron (Qatar). Her Highness Sheikha Moza bint Nasser Al-Missned is not a fashion industry professional in the traditional sense, but her influence in the luxury world is significant through her roles as a patron, investor, and style icon. As the mother of the current Emir of Qatar, Sheikha Moza has been a driving force behind Qatar’s cultural and educational initiatives (through the Qatar Foundation) and has used her platform to champion design, art, and luxury as tools of soft power. Notably, she has been instrumental in Qatar’s investments in the luxury sector: the Qatari royal family’s vehicle Mayhoola for Investments owns major stakes in brands like Valentino (100% ownership since 2012, until the recent partial sale to Kering), Balmain (acquired in 2016), and has invested in others like Tiffany & Co. and Harrods (Qatar acquired Harrods in 2010). While these investments are state-driven, Sheikha Moza is often cited as a key figure behind the vision of making Qatar a fashion capital. She herself is regularly featured on best-dressed lists, known for her elegant couture outfits from houses like Chanel, Valentino, and Jean Paul Gaultier – often custom-modified to be modest yet striking. By supporting haute couture artisans and wearing their creations on the global stage, she elevates the profile of luxury craft. In 2025, her influence is manifest in the way Middle Eastern capital has become deeply entwined with the luxury industry’s growth and consolidation. Moreover, initiatives like the Qatar Museums’ fashion exhibitions and Doha’s positioning as a host of fashion events reflect her impact. Sheikha Moza’s blend of cultural advocacy, investment savvy, and personal style makes her a unique power player in luxury, demonstrating how state-level support and passion for fashion can shape the industry’s landscape.
50. Thom Browne – Founder & Chief Creative Officer, Thom Browne (USA). Thom Browne is an American designer whose idiosyncratic vision has had an outsized influence on contemporary menswear and beyond. Launching his label in 2001 with a made-to-measure suiting shop in New York, Browne became famous for his shrunken gray flannel suits with cropped trousers – a silhouette that challenged conventions and eventually permeated mainstream men’s style. Over time, his brand expanded into womenswear and gained notoriety for theatrical runway shows featuring imaginative, often surreal storytelling (such as models dressed as toys or sea creatures, highlighting exceptional tailoring and craftsmanship). In 2018, Thom Browne sold a majority stake of his company to Zegna Group, which has helped fuel further international expansion. In 2022, Browne was elected Chairman of the Council of Fashion Designers of America (CFDA), reflecting his standing in the U.S. fashion community. In this role, which he assumed in 2023, he’s tasked with nurturing American fashion talent and raising the profile of New York Fashion Week globally. His own designs continue to push boundaries – whether it’s trompe-l’œil businesswear or playful handbags (like his famous purse shaped like a dachshund, inspired by his dog Hector). Thom Browne’s influence in 2025 can be seen in how the line between traditional menswear and avant-garde fashion has blurred; many men now embrace tailored pieces with a twist, a path he helped pave. Moreover, his role at the CFDA positions him to shape industry discussions around sustainability (he’s repurposed fabrics and archives in recent shows), gender fluidity (his skirts for men normalize breaking norms), and supporting emerging designers. As both a creative auteur and an industry leader, Thom Browne stands out for redefining American luxury through his witty, impeccably crafted lens.
51. Robyn Rihanna Fenty – Founder, Fenty Beauty & Savage X Fenty (Barbados/USA). Rihanna, the Barbadian-born superstar, has leveraged her global fame to become a significant entrepreneur in the luxury and beauty arena, blending pop culture with high fashion in unprecedented ways. In 2017, she launched Fenty Beauty in partnership with LVMH’s Kendo division, and it revolutionized the industry with its inclusive foundation range of 40 (now 50) shades – setting a new standard for diversity in beauty. Fenty Beauty’s huge success (surpassing $500 million in its first year) showcased the power of a celebrity brand done right and prompted major competitors to broaden their own shade offerings. Rihanna followed up with Savage X Fenty lingerie in 2018, emphasizing body positivity and representation across size and ethnicity, often showcased in viral fashion show extravaganzas that rival Victoria’s Secret (which waned as Savage X Fenty surged). In 2019, she became the first woman of color to head a luxury maison at LVMH with the launch of the Fenty high-fashion label – though that apparel venture was paused in 2021, its mere existence was historic. Now a billionaire, largely due to her Fenty business empire, Rihanna’s influence in 2025 is profound: she changed how brands approach inclusivity, proven that celebrity lines can have longevity and credence, and blurred lines between streetwear and couture in her projects. Additionally, her high-profile personal style – often wearing cutting-edge runway looks and setting maternity fashion trends recently – keeps her at the center of fashion conversations. As she balances her music career with her role as a business mogul, Rihanna represents a new kind of luxury influencer: one whose cultural capital and authenticity can build brands that both resonate broadly and challenge industry norms.
52. Anthony Ledru – President & CEO, Tiffany & Co. (France/USA). Anthony Ledru is a seasoned luxury executive currently leading Tiffany & Co., the famed American jeweler that is now part of the LVMH portfolio. Appointed CEO of Tiffany in 2021 after LVMH acquired the company for $15.8 billion, Ledru was tasked with rejuvenating and elevating the nearly 200-year-old brand. With prior experience at Louis Vuitton (as head of Americas) and a strong background in jewelry/watches (he worked at Cartier and Harry Winston), Ledru hit the ground running at Tiffany. Under his leadership, Tiffany has doubled down on high jewelry, contemporary marketing, and global expansion. He’s overseen splashy campaigns featuring celebrities like Beyoncé and Jay-Z (a partnership that included a famous Basquiat painting and a re-recording of “Moon River” to connect to Breakfast at Tiffany’s lore). Ledru also introduced more limited high-end designs (like a reissue of the historic Tiffany Diamond necklace worn by Beyoncé) and pushed into the menswear sector with adventurist jewelry pieces. He’s focused on younger customers too, expanding Tiffany’s presence in China and enhancing its e-commerce and digital storytelling. Internally, Tiffany’s design team got a revamp with the appointment of Ruba Abu-Nimah as creative director and the acquisition of a high-end gem-cutting atelier, signaling LVMH’s commitment to craftsmanship. Anthony Ledru’s influence in 2025 is significant in how a storied American brand is being revitalized to compete with European houses: Tiffany is leaning into its heritage (robin’s egg blue and all) while becoming more fashion-forward and culturally tuned-in. The success of this strategy, under Ledru’s guidance, sets a blueprint for heritage luxury brands refreshing themselves for new generations. Moreover, as a Frenchman in New York, Ledru embodies the globalization of luxury management talent, bringing cross-cultural expertise that benefits Tiffany’s East-West appeal.
53. Jean-Frédéric Dufour – CEO, Rolex (Switzerland). Jean-Frédéric Dufour helms one of the world’s most prestigious and recognizable luxury brands: Rolex. Appointed CEO in 2015, Dufour came to Rolex with a sterling reputation earned as CEO of Zenith (where he refreshed the brand and product lines successfully). At Rolex, which is famously private and product-focused, Dufour’s leadership has been about steady evolution rather than radical change – a fitting strategy for a brand built on consistency, quality, and timeless appeal. During his tenure, Rolex has maintained its position as the number one watch brand globally (often with demand far outstripping supply for popular models like the Submariner or Daytona). Dufour has overseen incremental innovations, such as new materials (the proprietary Cerachrom ceramic bezels), movements with improved precision, and the carefully managed introduction of new designs (like the updated Pepsi bezel GMT-Master II and the revival of the “Batman” GMT, which create frenzies among collectors). He also guided Rolex through launching certified pre-owned programs (a significant move in 2022–2023 to capture secondary market opportunities) and philanthropic initiatives via the Rolex Institute. Under Dufour, Rolex has expanded production capacity somewhat (with new facilities) but continues to guard its exclusivity. His influence in 2025 is emblematic of the broader luxury watch industry’s health – where Rolex remains the gold standard in terms of brand value and consumer trust. Other watch executives pay close attention to Rolex’s moves, from pricing to distribution adjustments, because of its outsized impact. Also, given Rolex’s involvement in sports, exploration, and cultural sponsorships (think Wimbledon or Deepsea missions), Dufour’s strategic choices in partnerships subtly steer luxury branding trends beyond just horology. In a world of rapidly changing tech, maintaining mechanical watches’ desirability is no small feat, and Dufour’s Rolex exemplifies how to do it through heritage and reliability.
54. Cyrille Vigneron – President & CEO, Cartier (France). Cyrille Vigneron heads Cartier, the flagship maison of Richemont and one of the most illustrious jewelry and watch brands in the world. Taking on the CEO role in 2016, Vigneron brought extensive experience in the luxury sector (including decades at Cartier in Asia and a stint as president of LVMH’s Japanese business) which proved invaluable for Cartier’s global growth. Under his stewardship, Cartier has reinforced its identity of timeless elegance while engaging modern audiences. Vigneron has championed iconic collections like Juste un Clou and Panthère de Cartier, and pushed high jewelry innovation, resulting in spectacular one-of-a-kind pieces that tour globally in Cartier’s exhibitions. He’s also navigated challenges like the cyclicality of the watch market by focusing on evergreen models (the Tank and Santos watches remain strong pillars). A notable success has been Cartier’s Love and Clash jewelry lines resonating with younger buyers, which he attributes to maintaining quality and allowing each design to have “meaning” and story – aligning with a trend of consumers seeking emotional connection. Vigneron also oversaw Richemont’s strategy to buy back excess inventory of Cartier watches from gray markets – a bold move that helped restore pricing integrity. His approach marries the old (Cartier’s heritage in serving royalty and celebrities) with the new (collaborating with stars like Jackson Wang or launching the Cartier Women’s Initiative to support female entrepreneurs). In 2025, Cyrille Vigneron’s influence can be seen in Cartier’s robust performance and high desirability across regions, especially in China and the Middle East where the brand has invested in cultural events (like high jewelry shows). Many consider Cartier to be the “King of Jewelers” and much credit goes to Vigneron’s balanced leadership which honors that legacy while steering the maison to even greater heights as a 21st-century luxury powerhouse.
55. Nicolas Bos – President & CEO, Van Cleef & Arpels (France). Nicolas Bos leads Van Cleef & Arpels, one of the world’s top high-jewelry maisons renowned for its poetic designs and exceptional craftsmanship. Bos has been with VCA for over two decades, becoming CEO in 2013, and has been instrumental in elevating the brand’s image and expanding its reach. Under his direction, Van Cleef & Arpels doubled down on its heritage of innovation – continuing to produce marvels like the Automate Fée Ondine (a mechanical automaton fairy) and intricate high jewelry pieces that often feature whimsical themes like fairies, flowers, and beloved Alhambra clover motifs. He also strengthened the maison’s commitment to the arts and education: Van Cleef & Arpels funds the L’École School of Jewelry Arts, which travels internationally to share knowledge about fine jewelry, reflecting Bos’s view that educated clients become loyal clients. Commercially, iconic collections such as Alhambra, Frivole, and Perlée have been kept fresh with new iterations, maintaining strong desirability. Bos has overseen a significant retail expansion into China and the Middle East, aligning with growing appetites for high-end jewelry in those markets. His leadership style mixes connoisseurship – being deeply involved in product development – with forward-thinking marketing, like embracing social media visuals that highlight the meticulous work behind each piece. In 2025, Nicolas Bos’s influence is noted in how Van Cleef & Arpels sets a benchmark for storytelling in jewelry. Many brands emulate its ability to weave narrative and enchantment into fine jewelry (for instance, its annual high jewelry collections often have literary or fantastical inspirations). Additionally, Bos’s emphasis on preserving craft (through ateliers and school initiatives) underlines a key trend in luxury to safeguard and celebrate artisanal skills. He remains a pivotal figure ensuring that one of Richemont’s jewel crown brands continues to shine globally.
56. Frédéric Arnault – CEO, TAG Heuer (France). Frédéric Arnault is among the youngest chief executives in the luxury world, and notable for being part of the next generation of the Arnault family (his father being LVMH chairman Bernard Arnault). Appointed CEO of TAG Heuer in 2020 at just 25 years old, Frédéric has been steering the historic Swiss watchmaker towards innovation and a digital future. With a background in engineering and mathematics, he spearheaded TAG Heuer’s push into luxury smartwatches, overseeing the development of the TAG Heuer Connected watch line, which has been well-received as a blend of tech and luxury sports watch aesthetics. He’s also focused on rejuvenating TAG Heuer’s core mechanical watch lines – models like the Carrera and Monaco – by injecting them with new movements and contemporary designs to attract younger buyers. Under his leadership, TAG Heuer has signed high-profile brand ambassadors (such as actor Ryan Gosling and tennis star Naomi Osaka) to amplify its image and has leaned into collaborations, like a limited-edition Mario Kart-themed chronograph, which generated buzz. Frédéric Arnault’s influence in 2025 is interesting on multiple levels: first, as a scion of the Arnault dynasty showing his capability and perhaps signaling the future leadership at LVMH; second, as a catalyst for blending Silicon Valley-like tech thinking with Swiss watchmaking tradition. He’s been vocal that luxury watches and smart technology can coexist, which is a stance that might shape how other brands approach the onslaught of wearable tech. TAG Heuer’s performance and direction under him are watched closely as a bellwether for how other mid-luxury watch brands might innovate to stay relevant to a digital-native generation. With youth, pedigree, and a clear strategic mind, Frédéric Arnault is carving out an influential niche in the luxury watch sector.
57. Michael Burke – Advisor & former CEO, Louis Vuitton (USA/France). Michael Burke is a seasoned luxury executive long affiliated with LVMH, known for steering some of the conglomerate’s biggest brands. As Chairman and CEO of Louis Vuitton from 2012 until a recent transition in 2023, Burke oversaw an extraordinary period of growth, during which Louis Vuitton solidified its status as the world’s most valuable luxury brand. Under his leadership, LV expanded aggressively in categories beyond leather goods – including booming ready-to-wear, watches, jewelry, and fragrances – and executed high-profile collaborations (think Supreme x Louis Vuitton in 2017, which was a cultural phenomenon). Burke’s tenure was marked by savvy moves like hiring Virgil Abloh as Men’s Artistic Director, thus propelling Louis Vuitton into the streetwear and youth culture stratosphere, and acquiring Tiffany & Co. in 2021, which he helped integrate from the LV side. Prior to Louis Vuitton, Burke had stints as CEO of Fendi, Dior Couture, and Bulgari, giving him a 360-degree view of the luxury business. In 2023, he stepped into an advisory role to LVMH’s chairman (amid speculation he might take on another top position, such as at Tiffany). Michael Burke’s influence in 2025 is multifaceted: he’s often regarded as Bernard Arnault’s right-hand man, helping shape strategic direction across LVMH. He’s known for being one step ahead of trends (embracing the art-fashion crossovers, experiential retail concepts, and celebrity power early on) which many in the industry then follow. As an advisor, he likely continues to mentor LVMH’s emerging leaders (including the Arnault scions) and to conceptualize future projects (like luxury hospitality expansions via Louis Vuitton). Burke’s track record of elevating brand desirability and financial performance makes his insights and decisions highly impactful. Even behind the scenes, his fingerprints can be seen on LVMH’s playbook, and thus on the broader luxury landscape, given LVMH’s market leadership.
58. Sidney Toledano – Chairman & CEO, LVMH Fashion Group (France). Sidney Toledano is a veteran in the luxury industry, best known for his transformative leadership at Christian Dior Couture and now as head of LVMH’s Fashion Group. As CEO of Dior from 1998 to 2018, Toledano presided over a golden era for the house, supervising John Galliano’s theatrical tenure, navigating the transition after Galliano’s exit, appointing Raf Simons (and later Maria Grazia Chiuri) as creative leads, and massively growing Dior’s global retail presence. He is credited with turning Dior into a multi-billion dollar business and one of the crown jewels of LVMH. In 2018, Toledano stepped up to lead the LVMH Fashion Group, which oversees a portfolio of prestigious brands like Celine, Givenchy, Loewe, Kenzo, and Marc Jacobs. In this capacity, he mentors and supports the CEOs and creative directors of these brands, leveraging his extensive experience. For example, he’s been instrumental in talent recruitment and placement – likely having input on hiring Hedi Slimane at Celine, Matthew Williams at Givenchy, and so forth. Sidney Toledano is often lauded for his balanced perspective: he deeply understands the creative side (earning respect from designers) while being extremely savvy on the business and manufacturing fronts (he started his career in engineering and manufacturing). His influence in 2025 is a guiding one, shaping strategy for multiple brands in the biggest luxury conglomerate. When Toledano speaks on industry panels or in interviews, many listen, as he offers clarity on topics like brand elevation, heritage vs. innovation, and the globalization of luxury. Internally at LVMH, he is a key figure in succession planning and stability, given his long tenure and success. Overall, Sidney Toledano’s steady hand and keen insight continue to quietly sculpt the trajectories of some of the world’s most fashionable brands.
59. Jérôme Lambert – Group CEO, Richemont (France). Jérôme Lambert is the chief executive officer of Compagnie Financière Richemont, the Swiss luxury group known for its strong portfolio of high-end watch and jewelry Maisons. Appointed in 2018, Lambert was the first person outside the Rupert family to hold the group CEO title, reflecting Richemont’s evolution into a more operationally streamlined organization. Having started as a controller at Jaeger-LeCoultre in the 1990s and rising to CEO of that brand, then later CEO of Montblanc and holding various coordinating roles within Richemont, Lambert has a deep knowledge of the luxury watch and accessories sector. As group CEO, he’s worked on modernizing Richemont’s structure, pushing its brands to embrace e-commerce and digital marketing (historically a laggard area for the group), exemplified by a partnership with Alibaba and a stake in Yoox Net-a-Porter (though that e-commerce venture has seen strategic shifts). Lambert has also overseen important hires and changes, such as new creative directors at brands like Cartier (jewelry) and Chloe, and acquisitions like Buccellati (the Italian jeweler) to complement the portfolio. His influence in 2025 is significant in that Richemont’s maisons (Cartier, Vacheron Constantin, Van Cleef & Arpels, etc.) continue to perform well, and he must navigate challenges unique to watches (the rise of smartwatches, independent pre-owned trading) and to the high jewelry market (competition from LVMH and others). Peers view Lambert as a product-focused yet pragmatic leader, one foot in the tradition of Swiss luxury manufacturing and one in the need to adapt to modern retail. With the luxury world’s attention often on LVMH and Kering, Lambert’s steady leadership keeps Richemont competitive and relevant. His decisions on partnerships or digital strategy, such as the recent adjustment with Farfetch and YNAP, can ripple through the industry’s approach to e-commerce integration.
60. Benedetto Vigna – CEO, Ferrari (Italy). Benedetto Vigna is at the helm of Ferrari, the legendary Italian luxury sports car manufacturer, and is steering it through a pivotal moment in the automotive and luxury landscape. Appointed CEO of Ferrari in September 2021, Vigna came from outside the auto industry – a physicist by training, he was a senior executive at STMicroelectronics, bringing deep expertise in semiconductors and sensors. His recruitment signaled Ferrari’s intent to embrace high technology (like advanced driver interfaces and possibly autonomous capabilities) and navigate the transition to electric vehicles (EVs) without sacrificing the brand’s soul. Under Vigna’s leadership, Ferrari has accelerated its plans for hybrid and electric supercars, with the first fully electric Ferrari slated for 2025, aligning with shifting regulatory and consumer environments while maintaining Ferrari’s performance DNA. He also oversees Ferrari’s thriving racing division and the brand’s expansion into lifestyle categories, such as the Ferrari fashion collection and luxury experiences at the new Ferrari-themed attractions. Managing Ferrari is a unique challenge because it’s a listed company with broad shareholding, yet also a closely watched emblem of Italian excellence. Vigna’s influence in 2025 is significant in demonstrating how a top luxury brand can tackle the innovation imperative. His moves – whether it’s limited-edition hypercars leveraging cutting-edge tech or partnerships (like potentially with tech firms for in-car software) – could set a precedent for other luxury carmakers. Also, given Ferrari’s ultra-luxury client base and strong profit margins, he’s positioned to show that going green (with hybrids/EVs) can be done in a way that actually enhances performance and exclusivity. Luxury aficionados are watching Ferrari’s evolution under him as a bellwether for the future of luxury automobiles, balancing tradition (the roar of a V12 engine) and innovation (silent electric speed). Benedetto Vigna’s leadership will likely influence how iconic legacy brands adapt to 21st-century technological shifts while keeping their brand essence intact.
61. Torsten Müller-Ötvös – CEO, Rolls-Royce Motor Cars (Germany/UK). Torsten Müller-Ötvös leads Rolls-Royce Motor Cars, the pinnacle British luxury automotive marque, and has overseen a remarkable rejuvenation of the brand. At the helm since 2010, Müller-Ötvös guided Rolls-Royce (under BMW ownership) to steadily expand its model range and reach new, younger customers, all while maintaining the brand’s hallmark of ultimate exclusivity. Under his leadership, Rolls-Royce introduced highly successful models such as the Wraith coupe and Dawn convertible, and most notably the Cullinan in 2018 – the brand’s first SUV and a vehicle that opened the Rolls-Royce experience to a broader lifestyle-oriented clientele, becoming its best-seller. He also championed bespoke customization to an extreme degree: today, virtually every Rolls-Royce is tailored to its owner, with Müller-Ötvös often noting that clients commission personal touches from unique paint colors to one-off art pieces embedded in the car (the “Gallery” in the Phantom’s dash is an example). His strategy has resulted in record sales for Rolls-Royce in recent years, while still cultivating an order book stretching months, even years, out – a careful balance of supply and demand that keeps the rarity factor high. Now, Müller-Ötvös is steering Rolls-Royce into the electric era with the upcoming Spectre, the brand’s first fully electric model, aligning with shifting environmental expectations without compromising luxury (he has assured it will be whisper-quiet and ultra-smooth – fitting for a Rolls). His influence in 2025 is substantial not just in the auto world but symbolically in luxury: Rolls-Royce under his watch has become a case study in how a 100+ year-old brand can modernize (embracing social media, courting younger ultra-rich entrepreneurs and celebrities, offering trendy Black Badge editions, etc.) while staying true to its core of craftsmanship and prestige. Fellow luxury brand CEOs often refer to Rolls-Royce’s approach to bespoke services and client engagement as a gold standard. Torsten Müller-Ötvös’s successful management of an apex luxury brand ensures that when one thinks of ultimate luxury in motion, Rolls-Royce remains top of mind.
62. Mate Rimac – CEO, Bugatti Rimac (Croatia). Mate Rimac is a young visionary at the intersection of high luxury and high technology in the automotive world. A Croatian entrepreneur, Rimac founded Rimac Automobili in 2009 to develop electric supercars and cutting-edge EV technology. His company gained fame with the Rimac Concept One and later the Nevera, which set records as one of the fastest electric hypercars. Recognizing his innovation, major carmakers like Porsche took stakes in Rimac, and in 2021, Mate orchestrated a deal to merge Bugatti – the storied French hypercar maker under VW Group – with Rimac into a new entity, Bugatti Rimac, with Rimac as CEO. Now in charge of Bugatti, famed for the 16-cylinder Chiron and a heritage of artful engineering, Rimac has the delicate task of leading it into an electrified future. His influence is evident in the industry’s electrification trajectory: he’s effectively bridging old-world automotive luxury (Bugatti’s century-long legacy) with new-world tech prowess (Rimac’s EV innovation). Many are watching how he will incorporate hybrid or electric tech into Bugatti’s next models without losing the brand’s essence of extreme power and exclusivity. Moreover, he represents a new wave of European tech entrepreneurs making waves in luxury mobility – breaking the mold of luxury car companies being run by seasoned industry execs. In 2025, Mate Rimac’s influence is felt in both the startup ecosystem and among established manufacturers: his company’s battery and performance technologies are sought after by others, and his bold moves encourage carmakers to consider more radical partnerships to stay competitive. If Bugatti thrives under this joint venture (which early signs show – e.g., strong orders for the final Chirons and anticipation for what’s next), it will validate Rimac’s approach of fusing Silicon Valley-like innovation speed with the craftsmanship of luxury automaking. In short, Mate Rimac is shaping the conversation on how the hypercar segment – a symbol of ultimate automotive luxury – can reinvent itself for the future.
63. Jean-Christophe Babin – CEO, Bulgari (France/Italy). Jean-Christophe Babin has been the chief executive of Bulgari since 2013, leading the iconic Roman jewelry house (which is part of LVMH) through a period of dynamic growth and brand elevation. Formerly the head of TAG Heuer, Babin brought a marketer’s acumen to Bulgari, diversifying its offerings while sharpening its luxury positioning. Under his leadership, Bulgari has expanded its high jewelry creations (with lavish collections often showcased in Italian landmarks), introduced successful new fine jewelry lines like B.zero1 and Serpenti Seduttori reinterpretations, and grown its watch division with hits like the ultra-thin Octo Finissimo series that set world records. He also spearheaded significant retail development, such as a spectacular renovation of Bulgari’s flagship on Via dei Condotti in Rome and the opening of a Bulgari High Jewelry boutique in Place Vendôme, Paris – a statement of its standing among the world’s top jewelers. Beyond products, Babin invested in brand heritage projects (like Bulgari’s Historical Archive and the restoration of Rome’s Spanish Steps) and pushed celebrity endorsements with brand ambassadors including Zendaya and Blackpink’s Lisa, raising Bulgari’s profile among younger audiences in Asia and globally. His management during the COVID-19 crisis was notable as Bulgari pivoted to e-commerce and even produced hand sanitizer to donate, enhancing brand goodwill. In 2025, Jean-Christophe Babin’s influence can be seen in Bulgari’s status: it’s often cited as LVMH’s fastest-growing major brand, putting it in closer competitive ranks with Cartier and Van Cleef & Arpels. The way he’s blended Italian exuberance (bright gemstones, daring designs) with LVMH’s luxury standards serves as a blueprint for managing heritage brands. Additionally, his cross-industry perspective (having come from watches) has enabled innovative collaborations – for instance, Bulgari partnering with other LVMH watch maisons on movements, or with luxury hospitality (the Bulgari Hotels are also under his purview). Babin’s success at Bulgari underscores the importance of visionary yet pragmatic leadership in driving a luxury brand’s modern renaissance.
64. Bruno Pavlovsky – President, Chanel SAS & President, Fédération de la Haute Couture et de la Mode (France). Bruno Pavlovsky is a key figure behind the scenes at Chanel, ensuring the business side of the famed house runs as impeccably as its creative output. As President of Chanel’s Fashion division (Chanel SAS) since 2004, Pavlovsky has overseen global retail operations, couture and ready-to-wear business strategy, and the alignment of Chanel’s image across markets. He worked closely with Karl Lagerfeld for decades and now with Virginie Viard, translating creative vision into sustained commercial success. Pavlovsky is known for championing Chanel’s commitment to France’s artisanal heritage – under his leadership, Chanel invested in numerous specialty ateliers (through its Paraffection subsidiary) that supply embroidery, feather work, and more, thus preserving the métiers d’art. He’s also expanded Chanel’s footprint worldwide, including in China and the Middle East, often emphasizing the importance of physical boutiques as brand temples (famously saying Chanel doesn’t do e-commerce for ready-to-wear, instead focusing online on beauty). In 2018, Pavlovsky took on an additional prestigious role: President of the Fédération de la Haute Couture et de la Mode, which organizes Paris Fashion Week and upholds France’s fashion prominence. In this capacity, he’s advocated for Paris’s leadership amidst a globalized industry and navigated challenges like the pandemic’s impact on shows and the rise of digital fashion showcases. By 2025, Bruno Pavlovsky’s influence is pervasive: at Chanel, the brand’s rarefied aura and consistent growth (crossing $15 billion in annual revenue) are testaments to savvy management balancing exclusivity and accessibility. Within the fashion federation, he’s instrumental in decisions that affect the entire Paris fashion calendar and emerging designer support. Colleagues see Pavlovsky as the prototype of the modern luxury executive – deeply respectful of creativity and craftsmanship, while rigorously managing brand equity and profitability. His dual role ensures that one foot is in guiding an iconic brand and the other in steering the broader direction of French fashion, amplifying his impact on luxury’s present and future.
65. Virginie Viard – Creative Director, Chanel (France). Virginie Viard is the creative heir to one of fashion’s most significant legacies, having succeeded Karl Lagerfeld as Chanel’s artistic director in 2019. With a background as Lagerfeld’s trusted studio director for over 30 years, Viard was intimately familiar with Chanel’s vocabulary and the rigorous process of producing multiple collections annually. Since taking the creative helm, she has brought a subtly softer, more wearable touch to Chanel’s runway shows, emphasizing real clothes for modern women while keeping classic Chanel codes like bouclé tweeds, camellias, and pearls at the forefront. Viard’s collections often nod to the maison’s heritage – revisiting Coco Chanel’s own motifs – but also infuse a youthful ease, such as pairing suits with logo sneakers or incorporating edgier accessories like chain belts and mini bags. Her tenure has seen notable moments like the return of the iconic Chanel No.5 perfume bottle motif in designs for its centenary and cinematic show settings in Paris’s Grand Palais (including one honoring French New Wave cinema). While Viard keeps a low personal profile compared to her predecessor, she’s earned respect for keeping Chanel’s desirability and relevance high; under her direction, Chanel’s fashion sales have continued to flourish, with hit items like new iterations of the classic flap bag in playful colors and patterns, and collections that tend to be more commerçantes (commercially viable) while still chic. In 2025, Virginie Viard’s influence is significant in that she has proven a “continuity candidate” can work for a grand house: she maintained Chanel’s aesthetic equilibrium in a time that could have seen major upheaval, thus giving confidence to other brands considering internal talent for succession. Additionally, her focus on daywear and reality-based fashion reflects a broader industry trend of aligning runway fantasy with consumer wardrobe needs – something many brands have adjusted to in recent years. As Chanel’s creative steward, Viard upholds an institution; her work quietly but firmly influences how elegance is defined each season across the luxury landscape.
66. Charlotte Tilbury – Founder, Charlotte Tilbury Beauty (UK). Charlotte Tilbury is a celebrated British makeup artist turned beauty entrepreneur whose namesake brand has become a major player in luxury cosmetics. With decades of experience glamming up supermodels and celebrities (from the runways of Alexander McQueen to being a go-to artist for stars like Kate Moss), Tilbury leveraged her expertise and personal charm to launch Charlotte Tilbury Beauty in 2013. The brand took off swiftly, known for its “magic” creams, flattering makeup palettes, and old-Hollywood-meets-modern-glow aesthetic. Products like Magic Cream moisturizer, Pillow Talk lipstick, and Filmstar Bronze & Glow became instant icons, leading to a global following. Tilbury’s approach—packaging her artistry into foolproof products and tutorials—helped demystify glamorous looks for everyday consumers. In 2020, she sold a majority stake of her company to Puig (the Spanish luxury group), in a deal that valued the brand at around £1.3 billion, demonstrating how quickly she built a powerhouse. Charlotte Tilbury herself remains the Chief Creative Officer and face of the brand, regularly engaging with fans via social media with her signature catchphrases (“Darling!”) and tips. In 2025, her influence spans both product trends and the celebrity beauty boom: she was among the first high-profile makeup artists to create an eponymous successful line, paving the way for others in the industry to do the same. The ubiquity of certain makeup trends—like the shimmery rose-gold eye or the contoured, glowing complexion—owe much to her brand’s aesthetic. Moreover, her high-touch, personalized retail experience (with beauty advisors and in-store transformations) has informed how luxury beauty brands connect with consumers. Charlotte Tilbury’s melding of artistry, personal branding, and product quality epitomizes the modern beauty mogul model, influencing both giants and indie brands in the $100+ billion cosmetics arena.
67. Pat McGrath – Founder, Pat McGrath Labs (UK). Dame Pat McGrath is widely heralded as one of the most influential makeup artists in the world, and in recent years she has also become a force in luxury beauty products through her brand, Pat McGrath Labs. British-born McGrath made her name creating iconic makeup looks for fashion shows (working closely with designers like John Galliano, Alexander McQueen, and Giorgio Armani) and editorial spreads, often using inventive techniques and bold colors that set industry trends. In 2015, she launched Pat McGrath Labs, initially with a single gold pigment product that sold out instantly, and then expanding into a full line of makeup. Her high-impact eyeshadow palettes (often with richly pigmented metallics), luminous Skin Fetish highlighters, and long-lasting MatteTrance lipsticks quickly garnered a cult following despite luxury price points. Pat McGrath Labs has been marked by limited-edition releases that generate huge buzz, artistic packaging, and McGrath’s own mystique as “Mother” (her nickname in the industry) guiding fans on how to use her products for transformative looks. She became the first makeup artist to be awarded a Damehood in the UK (2021) for services to the fashion and beauty industry, cementing her status. In 2025, Pat McGrath’s influence is omnipresent: many makeup trends, from glittery eyes to dewy, highlighted skin, can be traced to her runway or product work. The brand’s success—reportedly reaching valuation in the billions—also underscores the shift in beauty where creators (artists, influencers) drive luxury brands rather than legacy cosmetic corporations alone. Furthermore, McGrath’s role as Beauty Editor-at-Large for British Vogue gives her an editorial platform to shape beauty narratives. As diversity and self-expression in makeup are celebrated more than ever, Pat McGrath’s pioneering of inclusive, avant-garde beauty has been foundational. Her Labs’ partnership with major pop culture franchises (like a Star Wars collection) also exemplifies the convergence of luxury beauty with entertainment IPs. Overall, Pat McGrath continues to define and redefine what makeup can be, inspiring both consumers and the next generation of makeup professionals.
68. José Neves – Founder & CEO, Farfetch (Portugal). José Neves is the tech entrepreneur who created Farfetch, a pioneering global luxury fashion e-commerce platform, and in doing so revolutionized how luxury is bought and sold online. Launching Farfetch in 2008, Neves aimed to connect high-end boutique stores and brands around the world with online shoppers through a single digital marketplace. The concept took off: Farfetch now partners with hundreds of boutiques and brands, providing them an online storefront and logistics while offering consumers a vast selection of luxury products that were once geographically siloed. Under Neves’ leadership, Farfetch expanded rapidly, attracting major investments (from the likes of JD.com, Alibaba, and Richemont) and eventually going public on the New York Stock Exchange in 2018. Farfetch has since moved beyond just marketplace services: it acquired iconic boutique Browns, bought sneaker site Stadium Goods, and launched Farfetch Platform Solutions to provide white-label e-commerce to brands. In 2022, Neves orchestrated a deal to have Farfetch take a stake in Yoox Net-a-Porter (Richemont’s e-com arm), though plans evolved in 2023 amid market changes. José Neves’ influence by 2025 is profound in the luxury retail sector: he essentially cracked the code for selling luxury online at scale without eroding exclusivity – something previously thought very challenging. His emphasis on blending content, community, and commerce has been emulated by many. Further, Farfetch under Neves championed inclusivity of the long tail of luxury – giving small boutiques a lifeline in the digital era and brands access to data and customers worldwide. Neves is also pushing the envelope with technology: from early adoption of augmented reality try-ons to exploring NFTs and the “metaverse” fashion experience, positioning Farfetch (and by extension, luxury retail) toward future-forward thinking. As luxury continues to embrace omnichannel strategies, Neves is often regarded as one of the most visionary leaders merging Silicon Valley and high fashion sensibilities. His work ensures that the industry’s digital transformation keeps evolving and that consumers anywhere can engage with luxury in increasingly innovative ways.
69. Stéphane Rinderknech – Chairman & CEO, LVMH Hospitality & Wellness (France). Stéphane Rinderknech is a rising star executive within LVMH who has been tasked with leading the group’s growing interests in hospitality and consumer wellness, reflecting luxury’s expansion into lifestyle experiences. Before joining LVMH in 2022, Rinderknech had a notable career in the beauty industry with L’Oréal, including heading L’Oréal China, where he gained experience in a crucial luxury market. At LVMH, he initially took charge of certain beauty brands (like overseeing a transition for Dior and Guerlain in the US), but quickly Bernard Arnault appointed him in 2023 to a new role as head of Hospitality & Wellness. This division includes LVMH’s hotel properties (such as the Cheval Blanc hotels in Paris, Courchevel, St. Tropez, etc., and the Belmond luxury travel group which LVMH acquired in 2019) and its high-end spa/wellness brands. Rinderknech is responsible for integrating luxury service standards of LVMH into these experiences and tapping into the synergies between fashion houses and hospitality (for instance, Dior-branded spas, or Cheval Blanc collaborations with brands like Louis Vuitton or Fendi for decor). Additionally, he remains involved with LVMH’s Perfumes & Cosmetics division as needed, showcasing the company’s trust in his versatility. His influence, although more behind the scenes to the public, is significant in how luxury conglomerates are broadening their definition of luxury beyond products to full lifestyle offerings. Under Rinderknech’s leadership, we might see more curated travel experiences, exclusive resorts tied to luxury brands, or wellness services that carry the cachet of LVMH’s savoir-faire. In 2025, as wealthy consumers increasingly seek unique experiences and health-conscious indulgences, Rinderknech’s role puts him at the nexus of an important trend: the convergence of hospitality, wellbeing, and traditional luxury retail. His success could pave the way for LVMH (and competitors) to further develop these verticals, making him an influential architect of luxury’s next frontier.
70. Antoine Arnault – CEO, Berluti & Chairman, Loro Piana (France). Antoine Arnault, one of Bernard Arnault’s children, holds significant responsibilities within LVMH and the Arnault family empire, positioning him as an influential figure shaping the future of luxury. He has been CEO of Berluti, the LVMH-owned luxury menswear and footwear house, since 2011, and under his leadership Berluti expanded from a bespoke shoemaker into a fuller lifestyle brand (adding ready-to-wear, fine leather goods, and bespoke tailoring, including hiring top designers like Kris Van Assche in recent years). He managed to inject modern relevance into Berluti while maintaining its elite craftsmanship image. Antoine is also Chairman of Loro Piana, the Italian maker of ultra-luxurious cashmere and wool products, which LVMH acquired in 2013. In that role since 2013, he oversees the brand’s preservation of quality and global retail expansion, tapping into rising demand for understated high-end apparel. Additionally, in late 2022, Antoine Arnault took on a crucial role outside the day-to-day brand management: he was named CEO of Christian Dior SE, the family holding company that controls LVMH (replacing longtime Arnault ally Sidney Toledano in that position). This means Antoine is now directly involved in overseeing the family’s interests and the structure that ensures control over the LVMH conglomerate, elevating his influence in corporate strategy and governance. By 2025, Antoine Arnault’s multifaceted influence spans nurturing heritage-driven brands like Berluti and Loro Piana to perhaps contributing to the larger vision of LVMH as it navigates succession and expansion. He is often the public face for LVMH on topics like sustainability (he spearheaded some LVMH environmental initiatives) and communication (formerly heading LVMH’s image and communications). As a next-generation Arnault with high visibility, Antoine’s leadership style – blending family business values with openness to innovation (like Berluti’s foray into contemporary fashion) – will likely impact how LVMH evolves and how family-led luxury groups maintain their ethos in a rapidly changing world.
71. Alexandre Arnault – EVP, Product & Communications, Tiffany & Co. (France). Alexandre Arnault, another of Bernard Arnault’s sons, is making his mark as part of the new guard in luxury through high-impact roles and a reputation as a savvy innovator. He first gained attention as CEO of Rimowa, the German luxury luggage brand acquired by LVMH in 2016. From 2017 to 2020, at only 25, he revitalized Rimowa with product refreshes, elevated marketing (including collaborations with Supreme, Off-White, and artists like Daniel Arsham), and pushed it into the hype-driven street-luxury conversation while boosting sales and visibility. In early 2021, after LVMH acquired Tiffany & Co., Alexandre was appointed Executive Vice President of Product and Communications at Tiffany, effectively steering the storied jeweler’s image overhaul and product direction alongside CEO Anthony Ledru. In this role, Alexandre has orchestrated buzzworthy moments aimed at re-energizing Tiffany’s brand: he was behind the “About Love” campaign featuring Beyoncé and Jay-Z (where Beyoncé wore the iconic Tiffany Yellow Diamond), collaborations like the limited “Tiffany x Supreme” drop, and the unexpected launch of “NFTiff” (Tiffany’s venture into NFTs where CryptoPunk holders could get custom pendants). He’s also championed more youthful product lines (like Tiffany’s expansion of the hardwear and T collections) and store revamps (overseeing the design of the NYC flagship renovation). Known for being tech- and social-media savvy, Alexandre bridges luxury tradition with modern culture. By 2025, his influence is notable in how legacy brands approach marketing to millennials and Gen Z: more experimental, leveraging star power and collabs, and creating social media moments. As someone who straddles both the classic luxury upbringing and the digital zeitgeist (he’s active on Instagram showing behind-the-scenes looks), he symbolizes the changing of the guard at LVMH. Many in the industry watch his moves as a bellwether for luxury’s evolution – from Rimowa’s collab model now emulated by others to Tiffany’s refreshed cool factor tackling the challenge of attracting younger luxury consumers. Alexandre Arnault is thus carving out a significant space in shaping luxury brand playbooks for the new era.
72. Sonia Cheng – CEO, Rosewood Hotel Group (Hong Kong). Sonia Cheng is a prominent figure in luxury hospitality, leading the expansion of one of the world’s most acclaimed high-end hotel companies, Rosewood Hotel Group. As CEO since 2011 (and part of the family that owns Rosewood’s parent company, New World Development – her father is Dr. Henry Cheng), she has transformed Rosewood from a primarily North American brand into a global ultra-luxury hospitality name. Under Cheng’s leadership, Rosewood has embarked on ambitious growth, opening flagship properties in crucial luxury destinations: from Paris (Hôtel de Crillon, a Rosewood Hotel) to Hong Kong (Rosewood Hong Kong, her crown jewel project) to upcoming resorts in places like Doha and Tokyo. Her vision of “A Sense of Place” guides Rosewood’s strategy – each property is deeply connected to its locale’s culture and design ethos, offering guests authentic, high-end experiences. She’s also fostered brand extensions like Rosewood Residences (capitalizing on the branded luxury living trend) and wellness-oriented sub-brands like Asaya spas. Cheng, educated at Harvard, brings a blend of East-West perspective, making Rosewood particularly adept at catering to the sophisticated new generation of travelers from both hemispheres. In a sector where luxury consumer expectations are ever rising, she has been innovative (like integrating contemporary art collections into hotels, or launching Rosewood’s cultural immersion programs). By 2025, Sonia Cheng’s influence extends beyond hotels: she exemplifies how the next-gen of Asian business leaders are reshaping global luxury paradigms, prioritizing experiential, culturally rich service. Under her, Rosewood has become a serious competitor to older European and American hotel institutions, raising the bar with personalized service (the group is often top-ranked in reader surveys). Additionally, her role as a young female leader in an industry still largely male-dominated has been inspirational for diversity in leadership. As luxury converges with travel and lifestyle, Sonia Cheng’s approach to hospitality – embedding luxury in every facet of travel, from food to local discovery – influences how brands across sectors think about engaging their high-net-worth clientele holistically.
73. Peter Marino – Architect & Designer (USA). Peter Marino is a legendary American architect whose name is almost synonymous with luxury retail design, having crafted flagship stores and interiors for nearly every top fashion house in the world. With his signature leather biker attire, Marino stands out as an icon in his own right, but it’s his work that truly speaks, creating immersive environments that convey brand identity through architecture. Over the past few decades, Marino has designed notable stores such as Louis Vuitton’s mansion on New York’s Fifth Avenue, Chanel’s boutiques worldwide (including the famed Ginza building in Tokyo), Dior’s flagship in Seoul, the Zaha Hadid-designed Fendi headquarters in Rome’s Palazzo della Civiltà, and numerous others for brands like Bulgari, Graff, and Ermenegildo Zegna. His designs often incorporate sumptuous materials (stone, glass, metal, bespoke textures) and contemporary art – Marino is a passionate art collector and frequently commissions site-specific works for the spaces he creates. In effect, he has transformed the simple act of shopping into a theatrical, museum-like experience, aligning with the sense of exclusivity and wonder luxury brands want to impart. By 2025, Marino’s influence on the industry is indelible: he essentially set the standard for what a “flagship” should be – not just a store, but a cultural statement. Retail architecture following his lead often blurs lines with art galleries, and the emphasis on craftsmanship in interiors mirrors the products being sold. Marino’s approach has also underlined the importance of consistency and coherence in brand spaces globally, creating a recognizable ambiance that customers associate with luxury and comfort. Additionally, as brands increasingly invest in unique, Instagram-worthy store elements (like Louis Vuitton’s facades or Chanel’s sweeping staircases referencing Coco’s own), much of that trend can be traced to Marino’s earlier innovations. Even as physical retail faces competition from e-commerce, the temples of luxury that Peter Marino built stand as proof that extraordinary in-person experiences remain crucial – he’s influenced luxury brands to keep brick-and-mortar relevant and aspirational.
74. Natalie Massenet – Venture Capitalist & Founder, Net-a-Porter (UK). Dame Natalie Massenet is best known for revolutionizing luxury retail by founding Net-a-Porter in 2000, effectively bringing high fashion to e-commerce when many thought women would not buy expensive clothes online. Her vision and execution – combining a slick, magazine-like shopping interface with top-notch customer service – changed consumer behavior and forced the industry to embrace online sales. Net-a-Porter grew into a fashion empire, encompassing men’s site Mr Porter and an in-house print magazine, and eventually merged with Yoox to become Yoox Net-a-Porter (YNAP), which was acquired by Richemont in 2018. Massenet left YNAP in 2015, but her influence carried on as Net-a-Porter remained a leading online retailer. In 2017, she co-founded Imaginary Ventures, a venture capital firm focusing on retail and technology startups, allowing her to nurture the next generation of innovators in the fashion/lifestyle space (investing in brands like Everlane, Reformation, Skims, and more). Massenet has also served as chairman of the British Fashion Council (2013–2017), championing London designers and initiatives during her tenure. By 2025, Natalie Massenet’s influence is both foundational and ongoing: foundational, because she fundamentally changed luxury retail – without Net-a-Porter paving the way, companies like Farfetch (which she joined as co-chair in 2017) or myriad direct-to-consumer luxury brands might not have thrived so soon. And ongoing, through her investments and mentorship roles, she remains a key figure in guiding how fashion and tech intersect. Many digital entrepreneurs cite her as an inspiration and even an advisor. Additionally, the content-commerce blend Massenet perfected (with editorial shoots on Net-a-Porter that rivaled Vogue spreads) is now de rigueur for any brand or platform. She showed that storytelling is integral to selling luxury online. As the industry continues to evolve with social commerce, livestream shopping, and advanced personalization, Massenet’s legacy underpins a lot of current strategies. She remains an influential voice advocating for innovation, female entrepreneurship (being one of the few female tech founders to reach such heights), and the future of shopping.
75. Domenico De Sole – Chairman, Tom Ford International (Italy/USA). Domenico De Sole is a venerable executive in the luxury fashion world, best known for his leadership at Gucci during its dramatic turnaround and later as co-founder of Tom Ford’s eponymous brand. An Italian-trained lawyer, De Sole became CEO of Gucci Group in 1994, partnering with then-Creative Director Tom Ford to rescue Gucci from near insolvency. Throughout the ’90s, De Sole’s savvy business acumen (cracking down on licensing, expanding product lines like accessories, and acquiring brands like Yves Saint Laurent into the Gucci stable) along with Ford’s creative flair, transformed Gucci into a global powerhouse. He also adeptly handled Gucci’s defense against LVMH’s attempted takeover, ultimately overseeing Gucci’s sale to PPR (now Kering) on favorable terms. Leaving Gucci in 2004 after a storied decade, De Sole teamed up with Tom Ford again to build the Tom Ford brand from scratch, taking on the role of Chairman. He guided Tom Ford International’s growth from a startup into a diversified luxury player spanning menswear, womenswear, beauty (with Estée Lauder), and accessories. Under his strategic eye, Tom Ford became one of the most respected new brands, reaching over $2 billion valuation by the time Estée Lauder acquired it in 2023, at which point De Sole announced plans to step down after deal integration. His influence by 2025 is present in multiple ways: he’s often cited as the model for the modern luxury CEO who understands the interplay of creativity and commerce. The template of reviving a brand by focusing on product quality, scarcity, and powerful marketing that he executed at Gucci has been studied and emulated widely. Furthermore, his mentorship of Tom Ford from designer to mega-entrepreneur exemplifies how the partnership between a creative and a business mind can yield enduring brand success. De Sole also served on various boards (like at Sotheby’s and the Council of Fashion Designers of America), contributing his expertise to the broader luxury and art industries. As he transitions from active roles, his legacy – from shaping conglomerate strategies in the 2000s to fostering new luxury entities in the 2010s – makes him one of the industry’s wise elders whose strategies still influence brand playbooks today.
76. James Jebbia – Founder, Supreme (USA). James Jebbia is the enigmatic founder of Supreme, the skatewear brand that morphed into a global cult phenomenon and a driving force in the luxury streetwear crossover trend. Starting with a single skate shop in downtown New York in 1994, Jebbia cultivated Supreme’s aura through limited product drops, bold graphic designs (the famous red box logo), and organic adoption by skaters, artists, and musicians. Without traditional advertising and with tightly controlled supply, Supreme’s gear – from box logo hoodies to skate decks – became highly coveted, birthing the modern “drop culture” where fans line up or crash websites to snag items. Jebbia, originally from the UK, has always shunned publicity, letting Supreme’s image build via word-of-mouth and cultural cachet. The brand’s myriad collaborations (with Nike, The North Face, Louis Vuitton, and even unusual partners like Oreos or MetroCards) not only amplified its cool factor but also signaled a shift: luxury brands engaging directly with streetwear. The 2017 Louis Vuitton x Supreme collection, in particular, symbolized the full acceptance of streetwear into the luxury fold. In 2020, Jebbia sold Supreme to VF Corp for $2.1 billion, a testament to the brand’s massive influence, though he remains at the helm creatively. By 2025, James Jebbia’s imprint on fashion is everywhere: the ubiquity of streetwear elements in high fashion, the now-standard practice of limited “drops” even by luxury houses, and the collaboration mania can all be traced back in part to Supreme’s playbook. Many luxury executives realize the importance of “hype” and youth culture in driving desirability thanks to Supreme’s example. Additionally, Jebbia’s model of brand-building – maintaining authenticity, being selective in expansion (Supreme has relatively few stores worldwide even after decades), and embracing cross-industry partnerships – has influenced countless streetwear brands and luxury lines. While Supreme itself continues to be a major force (often topping lists of most valuable streetwear brands), Jebbia’s greater legacy is how he altered luxury’s trajectory: making a case that exclusivity can be achieved not just with high prices or heritage, but through cultural resonance and community.
77. Chiara Ferragni – Influencer & Entrepreneur (Italy). Chiara Ferragni is one of the world’s first and most successful fashion influencers, who transformed her personal blogging fame into a multi-faceted career spanning brand collaborations, a personal fashion line, and massive social media influence that even luxury brands court. Starting her blog “The Blonde Salad” in 2009 while a law student in Milan, she chronicled outfits and lifestyle which quickly gained a global following. Ferragni parlayed this into modeling contracts, front-row fashion week appearances, and by the mid-2010s was collaborating with luxury brands as a key digital ambassador long before others in the industry fully embraced influencer marketing. In 2013 she launched the Chiara Ferragni Collection, a fashion line featuring her now-famous eye logo on shoes, clothing, and accessories, which has grown distribution worldwide and evolved into a broader lifestyle brand (children’s wear, makeup collaborations, etc.). Chiara’s entrepreneurial savvy also saw her expand into a talent agency for digital personalities (she co-founded TBS Crew), and she’s been the subject of an Amazon documentary and even sat on the board of Italian luxury group Tod’s as of 2021, signaling how seriously the business side takes her insights on new generations. By 2025, Ferragni’s influence is embedded in the industry: she heralded the rise of the influencer economy in fashion—how front-row seats, advertising campaigns, and brand strategies now routinely involve influencers. Her success story has inspired countless others to carve out careers as content creators bridging consumers and brands. For luxury companies, she exemplifies the power of personal connection and relatability; through her, they learned to humanize marketing and engage customers on platforms like Instagram and TikTok in a native way. With over 20 million followers on Instagram, Ferragni remains a potent force; a single post of hers can drive significant brand buzz or product sales (the “Ferragni effect”). Beyond numbers, her positioning—balancing glamour with an accessible, family-oriented image (she often features her husband, rapper Fedez, and their children)—has broadened the appeal of luxury fashion to a wider audience. Essentially, Chiara Ferragni helped reshape how fashion is consumed and marketed in the digital age, making her an integral part of luxury’s evolution in the 21st century.
78. Federico Marchetti – Founder, YOOX & Former CEO, YNAP (Italy). Federico Marchetti is a trailblazing Italian tech entrepreneur who fundamentally changed luxury retail with the creation of YOOX and later through the merger forming Yoox Net-a-Porter Group (YNAP). In 2000, seeing an opportunity in excess inventory, he launched YOOX as an off-season luxury fashion e-commerce platform—an innovative concept that gave designer brands a discreet channel to sell past collections without diluting their image. YOOX’s success in Europe set the stage for broader acceptance of online luxury shopping. In 2015, Marchetti engineered a merger between YOOX and Natalie Massenet’s Net-a-Porter, creating what was then the world’s largest luxury e-commerce group, with Marchetti as CEO. Under his leadership, YNAP expanded globally, including partnerships in the Middle East and China, and launched cutting-edge initiatives like the try-and-buy service and early forays into omni-channel integration with boutique stores. YNAP also managed numerous brand e-commerce operations (powered by Marchetti’s team)—from Armani and Moncler to Valentino—giving him a unique vantage point across the industry. When Richemont fully acquired YNAP in 2018, Marchetti continued as CEO until stepping down in 2020, closing a chapter in which he proved that luxury consumers would embrace online shopping if done in a premium way. His influence by 2025 is enduring: Marchetti helped convince skeptical luxury CEOs in the early 2000s that e-commerce was not only viable but essential. Many practices now standard—like beautifully packaged deliveries, easy returns for high-end items, and integrated editorial content with shopping—were championed by YNAP. Even the concept of the “outlet” channel for luxury (now seen in brands’ own outlets or other sites) traces back to YOOX’s pioneering model. Furthermore, his model of white-label e-commerce service for brands (YNAP’s Online Flagship Stores division) set a precedent for companies like Farfetch to follow. Post-YNAP, Marchetti has been involved in sustainable fashion initiatives and digital education (he joined the board of Giorgio Armani in 2021), continuing to push for modernization and responsibility in the sector. In sum, Federico Marchetti’s visionary integration of fashion and technology paved the way for luxury’s digital revolution, making him one of the key architects of how the luxury business operates today.
79. Alain Wertheimer – Co-owner & Chairman, Chanel (France). Alain Wertheimer, along with his brother Gérard, is the co-owner of Chanel, one of the world’s most storied luxury houses, making decisions that preserve and propel the private company’s legacy. The Wertheimers are the grandsons of Pierre Wertheimer, who was Coco Chanel’s early business partner, and they have controlled Chanel for decades. Alain, often described as reclusive and intensely private, served as Chanel’s CEO until handing over day-to-day operations to new executives in recent years, and he remains Chairman. Under his stewardship, Chanel grew from a boutique French brand into a global luxury powerhouse, all while fiercely guarding its independence and brand image. Alain Wertheimer invested heavily in maintaining Chanel’s prestige: limiting product distribution (no licensing explosion like some competitors), continuously acquiring artisan workshops (embroiderers, milliners, goldsmiths) to support its haute couture and ready-to-wear production, and supporting creative endeavors (allowing Karl Lagerfeld free rein for over 35 years, for example). Financially, he chose to keep Chanel privately held, never bowing to pressures of public markets, which enabled long-term strategy over short-term results. In 2025, Alain Wertheimer’s influence is subtly but strongly felt: Chanel stands as a benchmark of how to manage a luxury brand with integrity. Many industry observers point to Chanel’s marketing (like the mystique maintained around the No.5 perfume or minimal discounting policies) as gold standards. With Chanel’s astronomical revenue and profits in recent years, the company proved that you can indeed succeed without chasing every trend or merging into conglomerates. Wertheimer’s approach, prioritizing brand equity and creative excellence (funding elaborate fashion shows, art collaborations, films, etc.), influences peers who realize the importance of brand DNA and exclusivity. Moreover, his decisions around leadership transition (bringing in Leena Nair as CEO, for instance) might become case studies for generational shift in family businesses. Though he stays out of the spotlight, Alain Wertheimer’s commitment to Coco Chanel’s ethos and careful expansion of the brand has cemented Chanel’s position at the pinnacle of luxury, reflecting an influence through ethos rather than personal persona.
80. Laurence Graff – Founder & Chairman, Graff (UK). Laurence Graff is a titan of the high jewelry world, often dubbed the “King of Diamonds,” having built Graff into one of the most prestigious diamond jewelry companies on the planet. Starting as an apprentice in London’s Hatton Garden at 15, Graff founded his own company in 1960. He became renowned for dealing with some of the largest and most famous diamonds in history – cutting and polishing rough stones of tens or even hundreds of carats to perfection. Graff’s client list of royalty, tycoons, and celebrities, and his fearless buying (he’s acquired and set stones like the 603-carat Lesotho Promise or the 118-carat Graff Venus) created a mystique around the brand. Beyond dealing, Graff popularized a style of ultra-luxurious jewelry that often puts the gemstone as the star – minimal metal, maximum sparkle. Under his leadership (now shared with his son François Graff as CEO), the company expanded globally with opulent boutiques from London to Monte Carlo to Shanghai, always maintaining an air of exclusivity. Laurence Graff’s influence in 2025 is multifaceted: in an industry where many jewelry houses are part of larger conglomerates, Graff remains independent, underscoring the ongoing importance of family-run vision in the luxury sector. His insistence on top quality, from sourcing the best rough stones to controlling cutting in-house, has influenced others to integrate vertically for quality control. Marketing-wise, Graff’s extravagant displays, like exhibiting record-breaking diamonds, has helped keep consumer fascination with exceptional gems alive (even as lab-grown diamonds emerge, the Graff ethos reinforces the priceless aura of natural rare stones). Graff also invests in legacy – his name is on the Graff Foundation which supports charities, and he’s created cultural touchpoints like the Delaire Graff Estate in South Africa, combining vineyards, art, and a lodge, merging lifestyle with the brand. Essentially, Laurence Graff has set benchmarks in the diamond trade and high jewelry design that competitors and the next generation of jewelers look up to. His eye for stones and aggressive approach to acquiring the best ensures that the mythos of the spectacular diamond remains central to the luxury narrative.
81. Glenn Martens – Creative Director, Diesel & Y/Project (Belgium). Glenn Martens is a Belgian designer at the forefront of fashion’s avant-garde-meets-mainstream movement, currently juggling roles as Creative Director for both Diesel and Y/Project. Martens first made waves with Y/Project, an independent Paris-based label he took over in 2013, where he became known for his deconstructive designs, clever use of trompe-l’œil (like layered illusions in garments), and a playful approach to shape and gender fluidity. His work at Y/Project garnered critical acclaim and a cult following, establishing him as one of the most creative voices of his generation. In 2020, Martens was tapped by Renzo Rosso’s OTB Group to lead Diesel, the iconic Italian streetwear and denim brand once at peak in the 2000s but in need of revitalization. At Diesel, Martens injected fresh energy by revisiting its Y2K heyday aesthetics (baggy jeans, logo belts) through a modern lens and staging viral runway shows (like the Fall 2022 show with a literal mountain of condoms as set decoration to promote sex positivity). Under his direction, Diesel reemerged as a buzzy label – its “D” logo belt skirts and diesel-embossed it-bags have been trending among Gen Z and seen on celebrities, boosting sales and cultural capital. Glenn Martens’ influence by 2025 is notable in bridging experimental high fashion and accessible street style. He proves that conceptual design can find commercial appeal – Diesel’s resurgence is a case in point of edginess meeting mass market. His penchant for sustainable practices (he’s used upcycled materials in collections) also aligns with new values in luxury. Meanwhile, at Y/Project, he continues pushing boundaries, ensuring the brand remains a darling of fashion editors and insiders. Martens shows that a designer can successfully helm a global brand like Diesel without losing independent credibility, perhaps influencing how companies might approach recruiting talent (valuing creativity highly). Additionally, Martens is part of the wave making Paris a hub not just for heritage houses but also for cutting-edge design, thereby shaping the future aesthetic dialogue of the luxury-streetwear continuum.
82. Renzo Rosso – Founder & Chairman, OTB Group (Italy). Renzo Rosso is an Italian fashion mogul best known as the founder of Diesel, a brand that revolutionized premium denim and casualwear in the 1990s and 2000s, and as the chairman of OTB Group (Only The Brave), his fashion conglomerate. Starting as a young entrepreneur in 1978 with Diesel, Rosso brought a provocative, irreverent approach to marketing and design (remember the “Be Stupid” campaign or jeans with deliberate distressing and high price tags that made denim a luxury item). Diesel’s success made Rosso a multi-millionaire and gave him the vision to invest in other brands. Through OTB, which he formalized in the early 2000s, Rosso acquired or took stakes in fashion labels with an edge: Maison Margiela (known for avant-garde design), Marni (quirky elegance), Viktor & Rolf (conceptual couture and fragrance), and more recently Jil Sander. He also nurtured younger labels like Staff International, and created Brave Kid for childrenswear licensing. Rosso has a reputation for fostering creativity—giving designers like John Galliano at Margiela or Glenn Martens at Diesel fairly free rein—while providing the business acumen and infrastructure. His group, though smaller than giants like LVMH or Kering, punches above its weight culturally. Renzo Rosso’s influence in 2025 is significant in championing that independent spirit in luxury fashion: he’s one of the few major figures keeping an Italian fashion conglomerate truly independent (not selling Diesel or others to the big French groups), which contributes to diversity in the industry power structure. He’s also deeply involved in philanthropic and sustainability initiatives, launching the OTB Foundation and pushing for responsible practices in manufacturing. Often called the “Jeans Genius,” Rosso demonstrated how a single product (jeans) can be the basis for a full luxury lifestyle brand, influencing countless others in sectors like sneakers or streetwear to do similarly. And his investment choices have helped preserve and elevate brands that might have struggled without a patron who understood their ethos (Margiela being a prime example after Martin Margiela’s departure). With Glenn Martens reviving Diesel’s buzz, Rosso’s early gamble on Martens seems prescient, reinforcing his image as someone who can spot and back talent. In sum, Renzo Rosso’s blend of rule-breaking branding, support for avant-garde fashion, and corporate leadership makes him a pillar of the luxury fashion landscape, especially as an advocate for Italian fashion’s innovation and resilience.
83. Carolina Herrera – Founder, Carolina Herrera (Venezuela/USA). Carolina Herrera is a fashion designer who became an icon of elegance, known for her sophisticated personal style as much as for the brand she built. Born into a prominent Venezuelan family, she launched her New York-based label in 1981, at a time when Latin American designers were rare on the global stage. Herrera quickly gained a reputation for dressing socialites and First Ladies (from Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis in her later years to Michelle Obama in more recent times) in her refined, feminine designs. Signature elements like crisp white blouses, dramatic ball skirts, and bold yet tasteful use of color and prints define the Herrera aesthetic. Over the decades, she expanded into bridal wear (becoming a top choice for society weddings), fragrance (her 212 and Good Girl perfumes are bestsellers globally), and ready-to-wear that epitomizes grace with a touch of Latin flair. Carolina Herrera sold her brand to the Spanish group Puig in 1995 but remained at the creative helm until 2018, when she passed the baton to designer Wes Gordon, taking on an ambassador role. Her influence in 2025 is enduring in the way classic elegance continues to have a place amidst trendier fare. The codes she championed—polished simplicity, the power of a well-cut gown, the ethos that women can be both strong and ultrafeminine—carry on through her brand and in American fashion at large. Many designers cite her as a role model for how to age (she started her business in her 40s) and remain relevant in fashion with dignity. Additionally, she opened doors for more Latin American talent in the US industry by showing that an international perspective could enrich American fashion. The brand’s continuing success under new direction speaks to the strong DNA she established. Beyond the brand, Carolina Herrera’s personal public presence—always impeccably dressed, often on best-dressed lists—set a standard for “ladylike” fashion that is timeless. In an age where trends shift rapidly, the Carolina Herrera brand and its namesake remind the industry of the lasting appeal of chic, well-crafted clothes for elegant occasions.
84. Manolo Blahnik – Founder & Designer, Manolo Blahnik (Spain/UK). Manolo Blahnik is a legendary shoe designer whose very name became a byword for luxury footwear, elevated to pop culture fame by references like Sex and the City (“Manolos” being Carrie Bradshaw’s obsession). Since the 1970s, Blahnik’s handmade creations – often characterized by feminine silhouettes, stiletto heels, rich satins, bold colors, and whimsical embellishments – have adorned the feet of royalty, celebrities, and fashion enthusiasts alike. A Spaniard by birth who set up his business in London, Blahnik has remained independently owned and designs each shoe himself, sketching and even carving some prototypes by hand, which is rare in today’s corporate fashion world. Iconic designs like the “Hangisi” jewel-buckled pump (famously used in a Sex and the City proposal scene) and his myriad imaginative runway collaborations (with designers from Oscar de la Renta to Rihanna’s Fenty) made him the go-to for elegant yet statement-making shoes. By 2025, Blahnik’s influence resonates in the sustained desirability of fancy, well-crafted heels even amid trends for sneakers and flats – he helped cement the idea of shoes as objects of art and passion, not just accessories. Many shoe designers have followed in his footsteps focusing on craftsmanship and distinctive flair (Christian Louboutin, for instance, coming a generation after, or Aquazzura’s Edgardo Osorio who cites Manolo as an inspiration). The way Blahnik built his brand – staying niche, not over-expanding, and maintaining a personal touch (he often attends store openings and meets customers) – is frequently admired as a model of preserving brand integrity in luxury. Also noteworthy is his contribution to museum collections and exhibitions (a traveling retrospective “The Art of Shoes” drew large crowds), highlighting how his footwear crosses into the realm of art. As of the mid-2010s, he brought his niece Kristina on board to help steer the business side, ensuring the house of Manolo Blahnik remains family-led and closely tied to his vision. In essence, Manolo Blahnik’s legacy in 2025 is that of a man who made women feel empowered and glamorous in his heels, defined an era of luxury shoes, and set standards for what a heritage luxury accessory brand can be: personal, highly creative, and timeless.
85. Telfar Clemens – Founder & Designer, Telfar (USA). Telfar Clemens is an American designer who has made a significant impact in fashion by merging streetwear ethos with inclusive, anti-elitist principles, encapsulated in the slogan “Not for You, for Everyone.” Born in New York to Liberian parents, Telfar launched his unisex label Telfar in 2005, but it wasn’t until the mid-2010s that he began gaining broader acclaim, ultimately achieving breakout success with the Telfar Shopping Bag. Dubbed the “Bushwick Birkin,” this vegan leather tote with the TC logo, released in 2014, became a massive hit for its stylish simplicity, accessibility (originally priced around $150-$257), and cultural resonance – frequently selling out and seen on all demographics, from students to celebrities. Telfar’s approach flips the luxury script: instead of scarcity and ultra-high prices, he focuses on affordability, community, and direct connection, employing strategies like “Bag Security Program” drops so fans can pre-order without bots scooping inventory, reflecting a democratic ethos. As a Black, queer designer, Clemens has also been a champion for representation and has drawn inspiration from the diversity of his own communities. By 2025, Telfar Clemens’ influence is visible in how fashion thinks about accessibility and community engagement. He anticipated the current wave of gender-fluid fashion, showing unisex collections long before it was trendy. His success with the Shopping Bag has influenced how even luxury brands consider lower-priced, logo-heavy staples as entry points (many big brands have since put out tote bags and casual leather goods). Moreover, Telfar’s model of deliberately not aligning with the traditional fashion calendar or system – doing things on his own terms like throwing parties instead of conventional shows, collaborating with brands like UGG or even designing Liberia’s Olympic uniforms – has shown there’s multiple paths to success. The phrase “It’s a Telfar world and we’re just living in it” echoes in the industry’s shift to recognizing that new voices and ways of doing business (like speaking directly to a young, diverse customer base on social media) are rewriting the rules of luxury fashion. With fashion awards (CFDA/Vogue Fashion Fund 2017 winner) and a growing global fanbase, Telfar Clemens is cemented as an influential force proving that authenticity and inclusivity can build a strong, covetable brand in the luxury landscape.
86. Caroline Scheufele – Co-President & Artistic Director, Chopard (Switzerland). Caroline Scheufele is a key driving force behind Chopard, the Swiss luxury jewelry and watch firm, guiding its creative direction and upholding the family-owned spirit in an increasingly consolidated industry. As the daughter of Karl Scheufele (who purchased Chopard in 1963), Caroline grew up in the business and took on a formal role in the 1980s; along with her brother Karl-Friedrich (who oversees watches), she is Co-President of the company. Caroline’s influence has been most pronounced in high jewelry and red carpet presence: she is known for personally styling celebrities at major events like the Cannes Film Festival (where Chopard has been an official partner since 1998, even crafting the Palme d’Or trophy). She expanded Chopard’s high jewelry lines with imaginative, one-of-a-kind creations (often inspired by nature or fairy tales) and introduced the “Happy Diamonds” concept into jewelry (floating diamonds under the watch dial or within jewelry pieces). Furthermore, Caroline spearheaded Chopard’s commitment to ethical luxury: in 2013, she launched a Journey to Sustainable Luxury, pledging to use ethically sourced gold and gemstones, making Chopard a leader among big jewelry houses in sustainability. By 2018, Chopard announced it achieved using 100% ethical gold for its products, a milestone under Scheufele’s guidance. In 2025, her influence is notable in how luxury jewelry addresses social responsibility—Chopard’s moves have nudged others in the industry to follow suit on traceable sourcing and sustainability narratives. Creatively, Caroline Scheufele helped modernize Chopard’s image from a staid watchmaker to a glamorous jewelry name coveted by Hollywood and international elites, without losing its independent charm. She has also catered to younger clientele via playful collections (like Happy Hearts) and expanded into accessories and fragrances. As one of the few female heads in high jewelry, her perspective has ensured Chopard’s designs resonate with the women who wear them. On the business side, keeping Chopard family-run allows for continuity in values and long-term vision, something Scheufele champions. Overall, Caroline Scheufele exemplifies blending heritage with innovation, and glamour with conscience, making her an influential figure in preserving the allure and integrity of luxury jewelry in the modern era.
87. John D. Idol – Chairman & CEO, Capri Holdings (USA). John Idol is a veteran American executive known for building Capri Holdings (formerly Michael Kors Holdings) into a significant fashion conglomerate and helping shape the “accessible luxury” market. As CEO since 2003, Idol took Michael Kors – then a nascent handbag and sportswear company – and aggressively expanded it through retail store proliferation and product diversification, turning the Kors brand into a global household name and publicly listing the company in 2011. He was early to capitalize on the craze for luxury logo handbags and accessible price points, which drove impressive growth in the 2010s. Idol then executed the acquisitions of Jimmy Choo in 2017 and Versace in 2018, rebranding the parent company as Capri Holdings. Through these acquisitions, he aimed to diversify the group and bring his merchandising and distribution expertise to these storied European brands. By 2025, John Idol’s influence is reflected in how American management approaches have been applied to rejuvenate heritage names: for instance, increasing Versace’s store network and shoe/bag business, and leveraging Jimmy Choo’s brand into new categories (like expanding into accessories beyond shoes). He has publicly stated goals of growing Versace to multi-billion revenue, indicating a vision of scale akin to bigger luxury houses. Under his tenure, Capri embraced omnichannel and digital strategies and also played the outlet and licensing game effectively for Kors. However, challenges emerged (Kors brand saturation, changes in consumer trends), which Idol navigated by pulling back wholesale distribution to regain exclusivity. His journey with Capri had a culminating moment in 2023 when Tapestry (Coach’s parent) announced plans to acquire Capri, in part validating his assembly of brands as a desirable portfolio. John Idol’s legacy in 2025 lies in being part of the wave that created American-led luxury groups to rival European conglomerates, and in popularizing a certain breed of jet-set, logo-forward fashion. He proved that big business could be made in the “accessible” tier of luxury, paving the way for brands like Coach, Tory Burch, etc., to flourish with similar models. Additionally, his work integrating companies across different cultures (American, British, Italian) highlights globalization’s role in fashion management. If the Tapestry merger goes through, his influence may also shape the future strategy of that combined entity. In summary, John Idol is a key figure in the corporatization and consolidation trend of luxury fashion, particularly at the more affordable end of luxury, showing both the possibilities and limits of such an approach.
88. Joanne Crevoiserat – CEO, Tapestry Inc. (USA). Joanne Crevoiserat is the chief executive leading Tapestry Inc., the New York-based house of brands that includes Coach, Kate Spade, and Stuart Weitzman – and possibly expanding if its acquisition of Capri Holdings (Versace, Jimmy Choo, Michael Kors) completes. Taking the helm in 2020 (after a stint as interim CEO and previously CFO), Crevoiserat became one of the few women running a major publicly traded fashion company. Under her leadership, Tapestry has focused on digital innovation, attracting younger customers, and strengthening each brand’s core identity. For instance, Coach under her tenure doubled down on its heritage of leather craftsmanship while introducing eco-friendly initiatives and playful marketing (like leveraging mascot Rexy). Kate Spade has seen stabilization as she refocused the whimsical lifestyle appeal that made it popular. Crevoiserat also steered the company through the pandemic, capitalizing on a surge in China sales and e-commerce. In 2023, she made waves by striking a $8.5 billion deal to acquire Capri Holdings, aiming to create an American luxury conglomerate with over $12 billion in revenue – a bold move positioning Tapestry as a global competitor to European giants. If successful, she will oversee the integration of Versace, Jimmy Choo, and Kors into Tapestry, balancing these higher-end brands with the more accessible ones in the stable. Her influence in 2025 is emblematic of the evolving definition of luxury – that success can come from the mid-market if managed well, and that American companies can be consolidators in a field historically dominated by LVMH, Kering, etc. Crevoiserat’s emphasis on data-driven strategy and omnichannel retail has influenced peers; Tapestry has been noted for strong customer analytics use. As a female CEO, she also champions diversity and inclusion within the company, aligning with modern stakeholder expectations. Should the Capri acquisition prove fruitful, Joanne Crevoiserat will have cemented her role in shaping a new multinational force in fashion, making her one of the most influential executives steering the course of luxury’s accessible and aspirational ends alike.
89. Silvia Venturini Fendi – Artistic Director, Fendi (Italy). Silvia Venturini Fendi is a scion of the Fendi family and the creative mind behind some of the brand’s most famous products. As the daughter of one of the five Fendi sisters who originally ran the company, Silvia grew up within the house and has been central to its creative team for decades. She is best known for designing accessories – notably, she created the iconic Baguette bag in 1997, which became a sensation (and a pop culture icon thanks to Sex and the City). Over the years, she’s overseen Fendi’s leather goods and then the menswear line, and after Karl Lagerfeld’s passing in 2019, Silvia took on the artistic direction of Fendi’s menswear and accessories and temporarily women’s haute couture and ready-to-wear until Kim Jones was hired. Currently, she focuses on menswear and accessories, while Jones handles women’s fashion, making her part of a tag-team carrying on Fendi’s legacy. Silvia’s influence at Fendi includes a profound respect for craft (Fendi’s Roman headquarters even house the ateliers). She has championed playful luxury: from whimsical “Bag Bug” charms to constantly reinventing the Baguette and Peekaboo bags in new materials and collaborations (including artist collabs and a recent celebrated Baguette 25th anniversary show). In 2020, she and Kim Jones co-designed a tribute collection blending their aesthetics, indicating her collaborative spirit. By 2025, Silvia Venturini Fendi’s influence is evident in how accessories have become central to luxury brands’ identities and revenue – few know that better than her, given the Baguette was one of the first “It” bags sparking the modern phenomenon. She also stands for continuity in an industry that often loses its heritage: as a family member, her presence assures a continuity of the brand’s DNA (FF logo stands for Fendi Family as much as Fun Fur). Many other heritage brands have since tried to keep or bring back family members into their folds for this reason. Furthermore, her success as a woman in a creative leadership role in Italy has been an inspiring model in a historically male-dominated field (particularly in accessories design which often had male leads). Through Silvia Venturini Fendi’s ongoing work, Fendi maintains its dual spirit of innovation and tradition – fur craftsmanship (though now re-evaluating in light of ethical concerns) and cutting-edge design in equal measure – securing her place as a key guardian and innovator of Italian luxury.
90. Simon Porte Jacquemus – Founder & Designer, Jacquemus (France). Simon Porte Jacquemus is a French designer who has rapidly become a significant fashion influencer by infusing Provençal romance and a savvy understanding of social media into his eponymous label, Jacquemus. Launching his brand in 2009 at age 19, largely self-taught, he gained initial attention with playful, minimalistic designs often in a neutral palette, celebrating French countryside simplicity and youthful joie de vivre. Jacquemus truly skyrocketed in the late 2010s with viral pieces like the “Le Chiquito” mini bag (a tiny top-handle purse that became an Instagram favorite and status item) and those giant straw hats from Spring 2018. He’s known for spectacular show settings that leverage social media buzz – e.g., the vibrant lavender field runway in Provence (2019) or the beach show, and more recently the dazzling show at Versailles (2022). These have made Jacquemus shows highly anticipated events beyond the traditional fashion crowd. By combining relatively accessible price points (compared to legacy luxury brands) with high design and clever marketing, Jacquemus captured a new generation of luxury consumers. In 2025, Simon Jacquemus’s influence is clear in how young independent brands can challenge larger houses by creating strong brand identity and digital presence. He showed that direct communication (he’s very present on Instagram, showing behind-the-scenes and personal life) can form a loyal community who feel personally connected to the brand’s sunny, sexy, carefree ethos. Larger brands have taken cues from his experiential showmanship and sometimes in the aesthetics – his celebration of Southern French culture has contributed to trends of rustic and sensual elements in fashion (like the surge of linen, raffia, and white cotton dresses). Additionally, Jacquemus’s collaboration with retail (like the pop-ups in Paris, a partnership with Nike, or a digital experience on Fortnite) exemplifies the new ways brands expand their reach innovatively. Financially, while still independent, he’s been courted by conglomerates (and indeed LVMH took a minority stake in 2023), indicating how much his brand’s success and potential are recognized at the highest levels. Simon Porte Jacquemus’s journey underscores the current era’s possibility: that a young designer, staying true to a clear vision and mastering modern platforms, can rise to notable influence in the luxury industry without having to helm a big heritage house.
91. Michael Kors – Designer & Chief Creative Officer, Michael Kors (USA). Michael Kors is an American fashion designer who achieved global fame by translating jet-set glamour into accessible luxury fashion, ultimately becoming one of the few American designers to build a billion-dollar brand. Starting his line in 1981, Kors developed a signature style of chic, sporty elegance – think tailored cashmere knits, camel coats, and luxe accessories that evoke an easy affluent lifestyle. After a bankruptcy in the early 90s, he rebounded, and by the 2000s, with financial backing, he expanded vigorously. His role as a judge on TV’s Project Runway (2004-2012) also gave him broad public recognition. The brand’s huge breakthrough came from its handbag and accessories line launched in the mid-2000s; items like the Hamilton and Selma bags and the iconic MK logo became ubiquitous, making Michael Kors a leader in the “accessible luxury” category alongside Coach. Kors’ success took his company public in 2011 in one of the fashion industry’s most lucrative IPOs. While he stepped back from day-to-day runway design (appointing younger designers to line leadership roles in recent years), Kors remains the Chief Creative Officer and the face of the brand’s vision – frequently referencing his love of travel and all-American optimism in collections. By 2025, Michael Kors’ influence is noteworthy in democratizing aspects of luxury: he was among those who proved that high style could be scaled to the masses through a semi-luxury model. His early embrace of department store distribution and outlet stores, while controversial to purists, actually forecasted the future high/low mix many luxury brands now navigate. Creativity-wise, while sometimes critiqued for being commercial, he consistently produced wearable, flattering clothes that women actually want to wear – a balance lots of designers strive for. Additionally, Kors has been a philanthropic presence (supporting charities like God’s Love We Deliver and the UN’s World Food Programme). As part of Capri Holdings, his brand is a cornerstone of a new American fashion conglomerate; his initial and continued success made that corporate growth possible. Many up-and-coming designers and business students look to Michael Kors’ trajectory – from a small boutique in Bergdorf Goodman to commanding a global empire – as a template of how to blend creative vision with business acumen to create a truly impactful brand in the modern fashion industry.
92. Alessandro Michele – Former Creative Director, Gucci (Italy). Alessandro Michele is an Italian fashion designer whose eclectic, maximalist vision dramatically reshaped Gucci’s identity and fortunes during his tenure as Creative Director from 2015 to 2022. Plucked from relative obscurity (he was a behind-the-scenes accessories designer at Gucci) and elevated to the top job in a swift turn of events, Michele quickly upended the sleek, sexed-up Gucci aesthetic of the Tom Ford era and his predecessors. Instead, he introduced a quirky, vintage-inspired, gender-fluid and intellectual style stew – embroidered animals, clashing prints, oversized geek-chic glasses, Victorian lace, and 70s sportif touches all mingled on his runways. This fresh take, resonating strongly with millennials and Gen Z, propelled a massive brand revival: Gucci’s sales and cultural relevance soared in the late 2010s, becoming one of the hottest luxury brands globally. Michele also pioneered a new approach to inclusivity in high fashion, casting diverse models and blurring gender lines with menswear and womenswear often intermixing. His creation of signature pieces – the fur-lined Princetown loafers, “Blind for Love” motifs, Dionysus handbags with bold hardware – and willingness to remix house codes (reviving the GG logo monogram in new ways, for instance) set major trends (the wave of logomania, granny chic, etc., in the late 2010s owes much to Gucci). Collaborations under Michele, like with Dapper Dan or the hack-swap with Balenciaga in 2021, also signaled a new era of brand interplay. By 2025, even though Michele has exited Gucci, his influence remains pervasive: so many luxury houses followed the maximalist, street-meets-heritage path he trailblazed – from renewed interest in archival logos and prints to more fluid collections appealing across genders. He showed that radical change can successfully come from within a brand and that bold artistic authenticity can translate into commercial gold, thereby influencing how other conglomerates consider internal talent and brand reinventions. Additionally, Michele’s work spurred dialogue on gender in fashion, likely paving the way for unisex lines and a broader acceptance of fluid styling now common in luxury. Post-Gucci, while his next steps are TBD, his era at Gucci will likely be studied as one of those defining creative tenures that shift an industry’s direction. In essence, Alessandro Michele’s flamboyant romantic revolution at Gucci left an indelible mark, inspiring designers and brands to embrace individuality and rich storytelling in the 21st-century fashion narrative.
93. Tory Burch – Designer & Executive Chairman, Tory Burch LLC (USA). Tory Burch is an American fashion designer and entrepreneur who built a billion-dollar lifestyle brand known for its preppy-boho chic aesthetic and accessible luxury positioning. She founded her company in 2004 with a small boutique in Manhattan and an online shop, offering tunics, ballet flats (the Reva flat with its double-T logo became ubiquitous), and vibrant prints inspired by her own Upper East Side-meets-travel sensibility. The brand’s rapid success was fueled by a celebrity endorsement early on (Oprah Winfrey’s famous “knockout” comment in 2005) and a keen strategy of offering aspirational style at approachable prices. Burch’s designs—ranging from ready-to-wear and handbags to home goods—resonated with a broad customer base seeking attainable glamour. Over time, she expanded to hundreds of stores worldwide and diversified product lines (sport, watches, etc.), always maintaining a consistent brand image of feminine elegance and global inspirations. As one of the few American female designers to reach this scale, Burch also made philanthropy part of her brand’s DNA, launching the Tory Burch Foundation in 2009 to support women entrepreneurs. In 2019, she moved from CEO to Executive Chairman and Chief Creative Role, bringing in industry veteran Pierre-Yves Roussel as CEO (also her husband), which has helped further professionalize and globalize the company. By 2025, Tory Burch’s influence is multifaceted: she exemplified how embracing e-commerce early and storytelling around a personal lifestyle can propel a brand. She’s also been a leading voice on the importance of women in leadership and mentorship in fashion business, quite literally “paying it forward” via her foundation which many cite as a model for corporate social responsibility in fashion. The signature double-T medallion logo and her approachable resort-wear sensibility influenced many contemporary brands and diffusion lines aiming for that “American casual luxury” sweet spot. Burch’s journey from stay-at-home mom to a powerhouse executive shattered some glass ceilings, showing that with savvy marketing, design appeal, and business acumen, it’s possible to carve out a large space in an industry often dominated by entrenched European houses. Today, Tory Burch, the brand and the woman, stands as a symbol of modern American fashion: colorful, inclusive, and entrepreneurial.
94. Marco Bizzarri – Former President & CEO, Gucci (Italy). Marco Bizzarri is an Italian executive who was instrumental in orchestrating Gucci’s explosive growth and cultural resurgence in the second half of the 2010s, alongside creative director Alessandro Michele. Appointed CEO of Gucci in 2015 by Kering’s Francois-Henri Pinault, Bizzarri had a track record of success (he previously led Stella McCartney and Bottega Veneta). At Gucci, he took a bold gamble backing Michele’s offbeat vision, which diverged sharply from the brand’s previous sexy Tom Ford/Frida Giannini image. Bizzarri championed this change internally and in the market, aligning all aspects of the business (merchandising, marketing, store experience) with Michele’s eclectic aesthetic. The results were staggering: Gucci’s sales more than tripled from 2015 to 2019, making it Kering’s crown jewel. Bizzarri fostered a youthful, digital-first approach—Gucci excelled at social media engagement, inclusive casting, and boundary-pushing ad campaigns (like featuring unconventional models, or launching the #GucciChallenge online). He also spearheaded sustainability initiatives, pledging carbon neutrality and launching Gucci Equilibrium, demonstrating how mega-brands can tackle environmental and social issues. Known for a personable yet decisive leadership style (often seen in sneakers and informal attire, breaking the CEO stereotype), Bizzarri maintained Gucci’s momentum through an industry upswing and then navigated the challenges of pandemic-era retail with a pivot to virtual strategies. In 2022, Gucci’s growth cooled somewhat, and by mid-2023 it was announced Bizzarri would step down as part of a creative/management shake-up. Nevertheless, by 2025, his influence is significant: Bizzarri set a new template for how a luxury house can reinvent itself quickly by taking risks and being in tune with socio-cultural shifts. He showed that maximal creativity doesn’t have to clash with strong financial performance – in fact, it can drive it if executed authentically. His decisions around dropping fur, curating Gucci’s collaborations (with Dapper Dan, Harry Styles, Balenciaga, etc.), and embracing gender fluid fashion influenced peers (as evidenced by rivals following suit on fur-free policies or cross-brand collabs). Internally at Kering, he raised the bar for the scale of success possible at a single brand, putting pressure on sister brands to innovate. For many in the luxury sector, Marco Bizzarri’s Gucci era will be studied as a case of visionary business leadership aligning with visionary design to spectacular effect, albeit one that needed to constantly evolve to sustain its peak—an enduring lesson in an ever-changing industry.
95. Thierry Stern – President, Patek Philippe (Switzerland). Thierry Stern is the fourth-generation owner and president of Patek Philippe, one of the world’s most prestigious Swiss watch manufacturers. As a steward of a family business dating back to 1839, Stern’s leadership exemplifies traditional luxury values of heritage, craftsmanship, and exclusivity in an age of mass production and conglomerates. He took over as president in 2009 from his father Philippe Stern, and under Thierry’s watch, Patek Philippe has maintained its position as the ultimate collector’s watch brand, with demand vastly outstripping supply for many models (such as the famed Nautilus). Stern has deliberately kept annual production limited (around 60,000 watches, which is small relative to big brands), protecting the rarity that keeps resale values high and clientele loyal. He has overseen the introduction of significant models/complications – e.g., the Grandmaster Chime, advanced research into new materials and silicon parts for movements – showing Patek blends innovation with tradition. Stern famously decided in 2021 to discontinue the Nautilus Ref. 5711 (with blue dial), one of their most sought steel sports watches, causing a frenzy and then surprising the market with a green dial finale edition, illustrating his astute, if sometimes cheeky, approach to managing hype. By 2025, Thierry Stern’s influence is crucial in reminding the luxury world that independence and long-term perspective can thrive: Patek remains family-owned in an industry where most peers belong to Swatch Group, Richemont, etc. Many aficionados view Patek’s stability and consistency as a gold standard. Stern’s candidness about things like not bending to trends or superstar ambassadors (Patek’s marketing is relatively understated) sets him apart, reinforcing the idea that product quality and brand mystique can speak louder than flashy campaigns. His stance on the secondary market (he has expressed concern about flipping and tries to allocate watches to real enthusiasts) is shaping how luxury brands think about client vetting and loyalty. Furthermore, in the face of smartwatches, Stern is a vocal defender of mechanical watchmaking as an art; Patek’s enduring desirability under his tenure is evidence that the high watchmaking tradition still has a vital, even growing, place. Thierry Stern, balancing innovation (like new in-house movements) with reverence for legacy, ensures Patek Philippe remains a byword for the pinnacle of watch luxury, wielding outsized influence on the values and practices of the haute horlogerie community worldwide.
96. Yohji Yamamoto – Founder & Designer, Yohji Yamamoto (Japan). Yohji Yamamoto is a master Japanese fashion designer whose avant-garde, intellectual approach to design has left a profound impact on the global fashion landscape. Debuting in Paris in 1981 alongside compatriot Rei Kawakubo of Comme des Garçons, Yamamoto introduced a radically new aesthetic to Western fashion: asymmetry, monochrome (especially his signature black), voluminous drapery, and a deconstructed take on traditional tailoring. His designs, often poetic and architectural, defied the body-conscious trends of the early ’80s and instead celebrated oversized proportions and androgyny. Over the decades, Yohji built a brand that includes his main line, the sport-influenced Y-3 collaboration with Adidas (pioneering the now-huge luxury streetwear crossover since 2003), and various diffusion labels. He maintained creative independence through tumult (even a bankruptcy restructuring in 2009), underscoring the notion that fashion can be art as much as business. By 2025, Yamamoto’s influence is seen in numerous ways: he was among the first to bring Japanese design philosophy to the West, opening the door for designers like Issey Miyake, Junya Watanabe, and later the whole wave of minimalist and deconstructivist designers worldwide. The pervasive acceptance of black as high fashion staple owes a lot to Yohji’s early insistence on it as a color of depth and chic (contrasting the neon ’80s). His gender-neutral silhouettes predated today’s fluid fashion movement by decades; many contemporary designers cite Yohji’s work when embracing non body-con, genderless forms. The Y-3 line essentially predicted and shaped the luxury sneaker and sportswear movement that’s now mainstream. Philosophically, Yamamoto’s approach that clothes should have longevity (“I want my clothes to be worn for ten, twenty years,” he once said) resonates now in the discourse on sustainability and timeless design. Also, the collaborative spirit (Y-3’s model has been emulated by other brand collabs) and cross-disciplinary influence (he’s done costume design for film and opera) speak to how modern designers navigate multiple platforms. Even with fashion’s constant change, Yamamoto at around age 80 continues to present in Paris, and younger generations still find inspiration in his rebellious, soulful approach. Yohji Yamamoto stands as a figure who proved that uncompromising creativity could reshape fashion’s language—and that legacy continues as designers and consumers alike pursue individuality and meaning in clothing, very much in Yohji’s visionary mold.
97. Elie Saab – Founder & Designer, Elie Saab (Lebanon). Elie Saab is a Lebanese fashion designer renowned for bringing Middle Eastern haute couture to the global stage with his opulently embellished, ultra-feminine gowns. Starting his atelier in Beirut in 1982 at just 18, Saab built a reputation among Middle Eastern royals and socialites through the ’80s and ’90s. His international breakthrough moment came in 2002 when Halle Berry wore his burgundy gown (with strategically placed embroidery over sheer mesh) to win her Oscar – a first for a Lebanese designer on that coveted Hollywood podium. That exposure propelled him in Western markets, leading to dressing countless stars for red carpets (from Cannes to the Oscars routinely) and brides desiring fairy-tale dresses. Saab’s signature style is often about maximalist glamour: think lavish use of lace, tulle, silk chiffon, intricate beading and crystals, long trains – all exuding a kind of old-world elegance blended with sensuality. Beyond couture, he expanded into ready-to-wear, perfumes, and even ventured into home decor and a namesake hotel project, translating his aesthetic into a broader lifestyle brand. By 2025, Elie Saab’s influence is seen in how haute couture from the Middle East gained worldwide respect and demand; he was a pioneer in that sense, preceding other regional designers (like Zuhair Murad, Rabih Kayrouz, etc.) who also now have international clientele. The “princess dress” trope so present on red carpets owes much to Saab’s consistent promotion of unabashedly glamorous gowns amidst eras where minimalism sometimes dominated. Culturally, he helped bridge East and West in fashion – demonstrating that Beirut could be a couture capital alongside Paris, and paving the way for fashion infrastructure improvements in Lebanon (though challenged by recent crises). His success also highlights the power of celebrity influence in fashion globalization; one Oscar moment translated into building an empire. Many aspiring designers from emerging markets view Saab’s journey as proof that with talent and the right spotlight, they too can enter the highest echelon of fashion. Additionally, the continued popularity of highly ornate bridal and evening wear in luxury (even as daily fashion gets more casual) has a champion in Elie Saab, who serves the enduring human desire for grand beauty. In a world where fashion often swings to street and simplicity, Saab’s continued prominence underscores that there will always be a place for pure, dazzling glamour.
98. Dries Van Noten – Founder & Designer, Dries Van Noten (Belgium). Dries Van Noten is a celebrated Belgian fashion designer known for his masterful prints, eclectic inspirations, and fiercely independent spirit as one of the leading members of the “Antwerp Six.” Since launching his label in 1986, Van Noten has consistently offered richly imagined collections combining Eastern and Western influences, artful patterns, and a refined use of color, all while eschewing the typical fashion system of heavy advertising or celebrity muses. Over decades, he cultivated a cult following and critical acclaim for making clothes that are intellectually stimulating yet eminently wearable. Van Noten remained independent for most of his career, running a profitable business without succumbing to trends like logo mania or overt flashiness, which made him a role model for sustainability and authenticity in design. In 2018, he sold a majority stake to Spanish luxury group Puig (which also owns Carolina Herrera and others), to ensure the brand’s long-term viability, but he stayed on as Chief Creative Officer, continuing to infuse his poetic vision into menswear and womenswear each season. By 2025, Dries Van Noten’s influence is deeply woven into the fabric of contemporary fashion: he championed the use of prints and rich textiles in ways that many designers emulate (the mixing of florals with stripes, or cultural motifs in modern silhouettes, so prevalent now, owes a debt to his trails). His approach to business – slow and steady growth, with focus on design integrity over marketing hype – has increasingly been praised in an era reckoning with fast fashion’s downsides. Many younger designers cite his balance of art and commerce as aspirational. Moreover, Van Noten’s shows and presentations, often set to emotive soundtracks, have been landmarks of creativity (e.g., he famously gave out real white roses to the audience in one show, which blossomed by the end). As fashion grapples with how to remain creative under corporate pressures, Dries Van Noten stands as an example of maintaining one’s identity and quality. His recent steps (like opening a flagship in Los Angeles with a restaurant and bookstore attached, creating a community space) reflect the experiential direction of retail and inspire others to think beyond just selling clothes. In sum, Dries Van Noten’s role as an “designer’s designer” continues, and his body of work – filled with intellectual yet emotionally resonant fashion – secures his place as one of the most influential voices advocating for thoughtfulness, cultural richness, and individuality in fashion design.
99. Masahiko Uotani – President & Group CEO, Shiseido Co., Ltd. (Japan). Masahiko Uotani is the first outside (non-family) President & CEO of Shiseido, Japan’s largest cosmetics company and a major global beauty player, and under his leadership since 2014, Shiseido embarked on significant modernization and global expansion. Uotani came from a marketing background (including Coca-Cola Japan) and brought a more international and digital-savvy perspective to Shiseido, which at over 150 years old, needed revitalization to compete with Western giants L’Oréal and Estée Lauder. He initiated a VISION 2020 strategy focusing on marketing innovation, product R&D (especially in skin care, where Shiseido has deep heritage), and raising Shiseido’s profile among younger demographics worldwide. Under Uotani, Shiseido invested heavily in technology (like AI-driven personalization tools), acquired brands (like NARS, Laura Mercier’s license, and notably the 2019 acquisition of Drunk Elephant skin care, boosting its appeal to millennials), and restructured to be more agile. He also emphasized Shiseido’s Japanese DNA of wellness and quality as a differentiator in global markets. By 2025, Uotani’s influence is evident in how Japanese beauty (“J-beauty”) has gained more cachet on the world stage as an alternative to K-beauty or Western brands, thanks in part to Shiseido’s push. His decision to sharpen focus on skin care (even selling off Shiseido’s mass-market personal care business to concentrate on prestige categories) aligns with industry shifts favoring higher-margin skincare and treatments. Moreover, Uotani has championed women in leadership within the company (Shiseido, as a beauty co., has many female employees but he aimed to increase female execs), addressing gender balance in Japan’s corporate culture, which influences other Japanese firms. On sustainability, Shiseido under Uotani has made strides in clean formulations and CSR commitments, reflecting global expectations. Uotani plans to hand over to a successor by early 2025 (Kentaro Fujiwara is named as next CEO), so his era is wrapping up, but he will remain as a board chairman guiding long-term vision. He will be remembered for opening up Shiseido – once considered a somewhat insular Japanese entity – to the world, and vice versa, bringing global best practices into Shiseido. In an environment where Asian beauty companies are more prominent, Uotani’s work serves as a model for bridging tradition with modern management to ensure a historic brand not only survives but thrives on a global scale.
100. Francesco Milleri – CEO & Chairman, EssilorLuxottica (Italy). Francesco Milleri is the chief executive and chairman of EssilorLuxottica, the world’s largest eyewear company born from the 2018 merger of Italy’s Luxottica (owner of brands like Ray-Ban, Oakley and a major producer of fashion house frames) and France’s Essilor (lens making giant). A long-time ally of Luxottica’s founder Leonardo Del Vecchio, Milleri ascended to CEO in 2020 and chairman in 2022 after Del Vecchio’s passing, thus helming a powerhouse that straddles both medical optics and luxury fashion accessory realms. Milleri’s influence is substantial in an often under-the-radar segment of luxury – eyewear – which has seen increasing consolidation. Under his leadership, EssilorLuxottica has been integrating its vast operations (spanning lens technology to retail chains like Sunglass Hut and Pearle Vision) and pushing innovation such as smart glasses (e.g., Ray-Ban Stories with Facebook), while also expanding via acquisitions (recently GrandVision, a major optical retailer, making the group even more vertically integrated). For luxury and fashion, Milleri’s EssilorLuxottica is the behind-the-scenes force that manufactures and distributes eyewear for numerous luxury brands (from Chanel to Versace under licensing deals). By controlling both the manufacturing and retailing, EssilorLuxottica under Milleri significantly influences pricing, availability, and design consistency across the sector. The group’s sheer scale and Milleri’s strategic moves toward digital tools (like virtual try-on tech) and emerging markets access shape how consumers worldwide experience eyewear as a fashion item. Additionally, Milleri steers the group on vision health initiatives, blending the medical importance of vision correction with the aesthetic side of glasses; this dual focus influences industry norms around eye health awareness (like campaigns Essilor runs about UV protection in lenses) and style. With Luxottica historically a bit aggressive in market dominance and Essilor’s precision, Milleri’s job has been balancing those cultures to create synergy—a success here will likely inform other major cross-border mergers. Given that almost everyone who wears glasses or sunglasses might be buying a product from Milleri’s stable, his reach as a tastemaker (through brand licenses), gatekeeper of quality (through lens technology and stores), and industry consolidator is vast if not public-facing. In 2025, Francesco Milleri stands as a critical (if low-profile) leader at the intersection of luxury fashion, health, and retail, driving forward an often underappreciated but essential segment of the luxury goods landscape.