Everyone loves a bit of luxury in their life, and there’s no denying that these designer brands are at the forefront. They supply everything from suits to basic tees and underwear. These brands know style and comfort, making their designs to the highest of quality. To help you out, we’ve rounded up the best designer brands that you need to know.
1. Louis Vuitton
Louis Vuitton decided that he wanted to become a trunk master at the ripe age of sixteen. Not only did this lead to him becoming a designer, but also an inventor, creating locks that had never been seen before. The brand continues to be best known for their bags and luggage, with travel remaining at the heart of the house alongside their RTW collections.
2. Gucci
Founded by Guccio Gucci in 1921, the label is one of the original luxury labels and one of the world leaders in apparel and accessories. The label is best known for its extravagant style and luxury textiles. Gucci continues to redefine fashion to fit the 21st century while representing the highest quality of Italian craftsmanship and attention to detail.
3. Balenciaga
Balenciaga is now more than 100 years old, with the luxury fashion house being founded in Spain back in 1917, by Cristóbal Balenciaga. Though the brand is now owned by the French multinational company, Kering, they have managed to uphold the label’s high-end status, as well as its on-trend style that can only be described as inventive, expensive, and bold.
4. Dior Homme
The brand was founded in 1948 by Christian Dior. Though the European luxury goods company is now chaired by the French businessman, Bernard Arnault, who is also the head of LVMH which is the worlds largest luxury group. Dior’s sophisticated, contemporary and confident style, sticks to a formal and minimal style. While Dior Homme has introduced a characteristic slim silhouette under the creative direction of Hedi Slimane, the brand continues to challenge convention.
5. Prada
Prada always thinks outside the box and doesn’t create their designs based on preconceived styles or fashion trends. As a result, the label prides itself on the uncompromised quality and freedom of expression. The Italian luxury fashion house is one of the biggest names in the industry, founded in 1913 by Mario Prada. Specializing in leather handbags, travel accessories, shoes, ready-to-wear, perfumes, and other fashion accessories, the brand has managed to stand the test of time.
6. Salvatore Ferragamo
Salvatore Ferragamo’s dream was always to transform his brand into a great fashion house, so when he passed in 1960, he left it as his legacy, hoping his family would fulfill his goal. Eventually succeeding, Salvatore Ferragamo is now one of the biggest and most well-known shoe labels, made from high-quality leathers and other unique materials.
7. Stella McCartney
Stella McCartney launched her brand in 2001, owning a 50% partnership with the Kering group. The label was one of the first fashion brands to join the sustainability movement, choosing to follow in the footsteps of her mother, Linda McCartney, an animal rights activist. Due to this, the brand uses non-violent materials to create their ready-to-wear clothing, accessories, lingerie, and eyewear, strongly believing in sustaining the planet and taking care of animals. Stella McCartney menswear has a unique urban look and is known for its soft tailored shapes and sporty feel.
8. Fendi
Founded in 1925 in Rome, Fendi is one of the original designer brands, reaching over 90 years of age. The Italian fashion house was just a fur and leather shop when it was first launched by Adele and Edoardo Fendi. Keeping to its roots, the label is still, to this day, the only brand to have an in-house, fur atelier. Their product line also includes bags, shoes, accessories, eyewear, fragrances, leather goods, and ready-to-wear clothing.
9. Saint Laurent
Yves Saint Laurent and his partner, Pierre Bergé, founded the brand 1961. The French luxury house is still considered one of the world’s most prominent fashion houses, known for its modern and iconic pieces. Saint Laurent embodies youth culture and emphasizes gender-fluidity through their gender-neutral clothing and simple, yet classic style, that’s explosively cool, entwining rebellious, punk with luxury.
10. Givenchy
The French luxury fashion and perfume house were founded in 1952 by designer Hubert de Givenchy came to prominence through his mastery of silhouette. The label strikes the perfect balance between traditional and modern style, keeping to a casual yet classic look that has been inspired by many artists, friends, muses and loyal clients. Though the fashion house is now owned by the luxury conglomerate, LVMH, the brand is still known for being one of the original top-designer brands, and a leader in the fashion industry.
11. Balmain
Balmain has a design heritage of rich decorative fabrics and luxe trims. The label uses innovative ways to embody its French legacy. It has a unique style and immaculate craftsmanship that is evident in the small details. Each design carries one of their signature embellishments, including their gold medallions, the new re-designed logo, buttons and symbols, the blazon coat of arms, their gold ornaments, or tassels. Recent designer collaborations include H&M, and Victoria’s Secret.
12. Kenzo
The French fashion house was founded in 1970 and created by Kenzo Takada, whose Japanese background inspired him to create the brand’s looks based on his Japanese influences and the culture of Paris. For that reason, the company has upheld his creative concept to this day, merging exotic prints with an ethnic twist, as well as many floral designs.
13. Alexander McQueen
British fashion designer, Lee Alexander McQueen founded his label in 1992 after completing an apprenticeship at London’s prestigious Saville Row. Exaggerated shapes and innovative tailoring combined with traditional techniques are the label’s key look. Punky streetwear and strong graphic effects are also an essential part of the brand’s DNA.
14. Giorgio Armani
Italian fashion designer, Giorgio Armani formed his company in 1975, reaching the status of ‘most successful designer of Italian origin’ by 2001. The Italian luxury brand is one of the biggest and most influential names in fashion, best known for their suits and formal wears clean, tailored lines. Armani is a symbol of success for many business professionals and has been since the early ’80s.
15. Tom Ford
In 2005 Tom Ford announced the creation of his brand, and while it is a relatively new name to the fashion world, Ford has already succeeded at making it as well known as your ‘old as time’ designer brands; he spent the previous fifteen years working to revolutionize Gucci. Tom Ford is your one-stop fashion shop that supplies everything from apparel to luggage and fragrances.
16. Berluti
Berluti exceeds at making bags, accessories and ready-to-wear clothing, but the heart of the company is their leather shoes. Due to challenging the boundaries of craftsmanship, the fashion house was able to create their own special leathers and unique designs, including a supple smooth leather which can be transformed into many colors with the option of personalization.
17. Burberry
Thomas Burberry originally designed his clothing to protect people from the cold harsh British weather, sourcing hardwearing fabrics that revolutionized weatherproof clothing, starting in 1856. To this day, Burberry has a distinctive British identity known for its classic outerwear pieces, using traditional woven patterns and slick tailoring.
18. Comme Des Garçons
Comme Des Garçons was founded in 1969, yet wasn’t established as a company until 1973. The brand quickly made a name for itself in Japan, where it was created by Rei Kawakubo, before spreading to many other regions of the world. Though the label is nearly 50 years old it still manages to be the most inventive brand of the 21st century, specializing in making unique, funky, radical fashion that fiercely challenges conventions and transcends gender stereotypes with completely original clothing.
19. Calvin Klein
Calvin Klein was launched in 1968 by American fashion designer, Calvin Richard Klein. The label is a global lifestyle megabrand with a global presence that prides itself on its provocative, modern and sensual nature. The brand has a minimal aesthetic, that cleverly combines unstructured tailoring with iconic staples.
20. Brioni
The Italian brand, Brioni has a very particular method of creating their suits which they have practiced since the late ’50s. It requires 220 steps and more than 22 hours’ worth of work to complete this unique process manually. Though it’s well worth the end product, creating quite a smart and sophisticated look, even in their day-to-day clothing.
21. DKNY
Donna Karen founded her diffusion brand DKNY in 1984, though it wasn’t until 1992 that DKNY Men was launched. The label soon became known for its sporty influences, casual chic, and clever use of branding. It carries a strong sense of New York, with many of their shirts and jumpers featuring the city landscape. The DKNY design ethos is at the core of its uncomplicated and laid-back style.
22. Ralph Lauren
Ralph Lauren stands at the forefront of fashion, being a global leader in design and marketing since the fashion house was invented in 1967, while Ralph himself, is an icon in the industry. The brand provides apparel, accessories, and fragrance for men, women and children, and is super stylish. The label continues to be the leader in the latest trends and always provides the best runway looks.
23. Valentino
The brand was founded in 1959 in Rome by the Italian fashion designer, Valentino Clemente Ludovico Garavani. Valentino is one of the original leaders of international fashion and continues to be today. The label makes shoes, bags, eyewear, scarves, ties, fragrances, and clothes that are super edgy and most interesting in style.
24. Paul Smith
Paul Smith came up with the concept of the company in the ’70s and has kept to these standards ever since, the motto being, ‘classic with a twist’. The brand stands apart from many others due to its unique taste and playful sense of style. Paul Smith’s fashion sits somewhere between high fashion and formalwear and uses both for inspiration.
25. Ermenegildo Zegna
Founded in 1910, Zegna is an Italian luxury fashion house specializing in men’s clothing and accessories. The label has a very holistic approach to the way they run the business, always sourcing high-quality, nature-friendly raw materials. In fact, the label is one of the biggest global producers of fine fabrics and have been active in promoting improvements in wool production around the world. By revenue, the brand just so happens to be the largest menswear brand in the world with its smart casual, basic designs.
26. Hugo Boss
The German luxury fashion house was founded in 1924 by Hugo Boss, originally specializing in uniforms during World War II. Though changing over time, the label now has a mix of both classic business attire and casual athleisurewear which are all made to a premium standard, making a confident statement, while keeping with simple yet classic designs.
27. DSquared2
Twin brothers Dean and Dan founded DSquared2, in 1996, in Milan, Italy. The designs are a mix of edgy and sensual, made with Canadian and Italian tailoring, choosing their countries of heritage. Hence, their collections are perfectly contrasted, creating an alternate concept to luxury, by melding together opposite designs.
28. Thom Browne
In 2001 Thom Browne realized that there was a gap in the market for formal clothing due to the fact that everyone had become overly casual in the way that they dressed. Therefore, the brand specializes in suits and formal wear, making even their casual clothing quite dressy. Though the most noteworthy thing about Thom Browne is that he loves playing with traditional proportions and creating clothes that are ‘shrunken’, reconceptualizing the classic men’s suit, while also accepting gender fluidity by dressing his male models in skirts, dresses, and heels.
29. Hermes
Hermes sells leather goods, accessories, perfumes and ready-to-wear clothing that is quite traditional in style. Out of all of their products, their leather goods are their biggest contributor to the company’s revenues, followed by their ready-to-wear line. The brand also has many partner brands including, John Lobb (bootmaker), Puiforcat (silversmith), Saint-Louis (crystal manufacturer) and Shang Xia (contemporary fine living lifestyle brand).
30. Lacoste
Founded by 1920’s tennis champion Rene Lacoste, one of the greatest preppy brands of all time emerged from a determination to improve sporting apparel which, at that time, was largely woven. He is credited with the invention of cotton pique, a sturdy knit fabric which to this day is still used in the company’s iconic polo shirts. Over time the Lacoste range has grown to include a strong offering of technical and outerwear apparel with punchy coloration and classic tennis whites.
31. Belstaff
There is a lot to like about the brand, Belstaff. It is practical but stylish, great for those who want a statement jacket or a great pair of boots; the best-known pieces are the iconic waxed cotton jackets. It is a British brand with a long history, dating back to 1924 when it was founded by Eli Belovitch and his son-in-law Harry Grosberg in Longton, Stoke-on-Trent in the United Kingdom. It was initially created as an outerwear brand but has since become a luxury designer brand, celebrated for its quality items that are made to last.
32. Diesel
Diesel is an Italian clothing company celebrated for its fresh denim designs, but it also sells accessories, footwear, and everything from beachwear to knitwear. It was founded in 1978 in Molvena, Colceresa, Italy, by Italian fashion mogul and businessman Renzo Rosso. The brand can feel rebellious and youthful, with distressed items and sometimes the unusual placement of zippers or pockets. This makes each piece of Diesel clothing ideal for those who want something special and different.
33. Etro
Another must-know Italian fashion brand is Etro. The company is family-owned and was founded by Gerolamo Etro in 1968. The longevity alone should be a testament to the company’s success, but this is also thanks to its ability to evolve with the times. There are statement pieces and staples, classic colors, and tailored garments to paisley prints and unique colors. The brand is celebrated for its paisley designs, making it easy to recognize that the piece is an Etro design.
34. Erdem
Erdem is a company started by British fashion designer Erdem Moralioglu. His name is not the only thing unique about the brand, which was founded in 2005, and features collections for men and women. Best known for their botanical prints, the appeal of Erdem is that the designs are made to last, created using high-quality materials. There are items that are perfect for everyday wear, or you can find special designs for memorable occasions. From embroidered cotton jackets and chinos to floral tailored shorts, there is something to suit every preference and are often more affordable than other designer brands.
35. 3.1 Phillip Lim
3.1 Phillip Lim is a fashion label founded by friends Phillip Lim and Wen Zhou. The brand made its debut at the New York Fashion Week in 2005, and over the years, it has gone from strength to strength, becoming one of the most sought-after designer brands in the world. It is celebrated for creating ethical luxury fashion; they have stated that Community and Sustainability are integral to its design process. They also aim to make their pieces accessible to the “global citizen.” The designs are special, with standout pieces including quilted jackets, duvet parkers, and edgy suede combat boots.
36. Vetements
Vetements is a luxury French fashion house known for its bold prints, interesting color combinations, and designs that are made to be noticed. Founded in 2014 by Demna Gvasalia and Guram Gvasalia, it has become easy to spot a Vetements product, which is the appeal of the luxury fashion brand. Designer pieces are costly, but they are also built to last so that you can expect superb quality.
37. Stone Island
Stone Island is perhaps not as well-known as some other luxury fashion brands, but it certainly deserves recognition. Founded in 1982 by Massimo Osti, the Italian brand is celebrated for its interesting colors and clever use of fabrics; these include a shiny, transparent bomber jacket made in a canvas with polyester monofilaments and flat nylon threads. Garments include everything from coats and jackets to knitwear and fleece and come in various sizes and fits.
38. Rag & Bone
Rag & Bone was founded in 2002 by Nathan Bogle and Marcus Wainwright and has gone from strength to strength over the last 20 years. The appeal of this American fashion label is the urban style, and pieces are effortlessly cool and easy to wear, lending themselves to various occasions. The brand is sold in hundreds of stores around the world and has become one of the best-known luxury labels, with pieces expertly crafted and designed to last. These include linen shorts, cotton knit shirts, and casual linen blazers.
39. Roberto Cavalli
Luxury fashion label, Robert Cavali, is the eponymous brand of famed Italian designer Robert Cavali. Founded in 1972 in Florence, Italy, the label has become known for its bold prints, brightly colored garments, and leather accessories. These pieces have a youthful feel and are for those who prefer to stand out from the crowd rather than blend in. Designs include the tiger-inspired Felix print silk shirt or the equally daring zebra-print slim-fit jeans.
40. Rick Owens
Rick Owens is a brand that was designed to stand out. It is an interesting mixture of grunge and gothic designs and superb tailoring, creating unique pieces that are made to be seen. Founded by American-born, Paris-based fashion designer Rick Owens, the brand is edgy and cool and has earned Owens the nickname of the Lord of Darkness. The first show took place in 2002 during New York Fashion Week’s Spring/Summer season, and in the last two decades, the brand has continued to thrive.
41. Dunhill
Founded by Alfred Dunhill more than 120 years ago, this London designer has from a long day fro its origins. Alfred inherited his father’s saddlery business, which he began developing leather goods for cars. Over the years, the family business entered into the luxury goods space, leading us to where it is today. With menswear, leather goods, accessories, fragrances and watches, it has become one of the oldest and largest brands in the industry.
42. Maison Margiela
Renowned for its innovative and iconic designs, Maison Margiela is one of th most polarising designers of today. Founded in 1988 in France by Martin Margiela, the label reduces ready-to-wear and couture-inspired pieces. Inspired by shocking and provoking artwork, many have described the work of Margiela as the Marcel Duchamp of fashion. Some of its most recognisable items is its Tabi boot, inspired by the split toe Tabi sock from Japan. The founder left the business in 2009, with John Galliano taking the role of Creative Director in 2014.
43. Vivienne Westwood
As a symbol of British punk and rebellion, Vivienne Westwood remains one of the most iconic designers in modern fashion history. Launching a store in London called SEX, she paved the way for the punk subculture to enter the mainstream. Her pieces include ripped T-shirts, plaid, and sky high platform heels – of which supermodel Naomi Campbell famously wore (and fell) on the runway in 1993. A proud rebel of the industry, her pieces remain political and symbolic statements against conformists, and defined an era of defiance against the norm.
44. Ted Baker
Although Ted Baker’s history only stretches back to the ‘80s, the British high street brand has certainly made a name for itself. Founded in 1988 in Scotland by Ray Kelvin, it started as the founder’s alter-ego – complete as an aviator and “all-round sportsman”, surrounded by princess and “Hollywood beauties”. Over the years, the brand launched a women’s line, and opened several stores over the UK. Today, you will find ready-to-wear pieces, footwear and accessories, complete with men and women’s pieces across the world.
45. Tommy Hilfiger
Dubbed as one of the most American brands in fashion history, Timmy Hilfiger is an inspirational and influential designer. Pursuing fashion as a career in the ‘80s, Tommy created button-down shirts, chinos and pieces reminiscent of the preppy culture. In the decades since, it has gone on to be more than just a fashion brand. Tommy Hilfiger has inspired the next generation of culture, sparking the preppy revival of the ‘00s and in the hip hop scene. Aside from fashion, Tommy Hilfiger supports and encourages philanthropic efforts such as Save the Children and the World Wildlife Fund.
46. Zadig & Voltaire
Zadig & Voltaire is an edgy and rebellious brand, founded in 1997 in France. Perhaps best known for its cashmere sweaters and Tunisian t-shirt, it’s Street wear aesthetic has gone on to inspire a multitude of other designers in its wake. The womenswear designer is heavily inspired by the Parisian woman, who is free-spirited with a touch of rock and roll. The most prominent designs feature leather, denim and a blend of soft fabrics like cashmere, often with a streetwear edge and a timeless attitude.
47. Derek Rose
While most will think of luxury designers as haute couture or ready-to-wear, Derek Rose defies them all with its high-end loungewear and pajamas. The intimate apparel designer was founded in 1926, with the core focus of making the wearer feel relaxed and comfortable. In 1987, it received the Queen’s Award for Export Achievement, and expanded its stores across the world. Even 100 years later, its luxurious fabrics and effortless designs are intended for those who want to enjoy their free time.
48. Lanvin
Lanvin in is one of the oldest fashion houses in France. Founded in 1889, it started out small and focussed only on hats. Created by Jeanne Lanvin at the age of 22, she but soon entered the world of womenswear, hone decor and lingerie. As the third oldest French fashion house still in operation, today it works alongside some of the most influential designers in modern fashion history. With names range from the late Alber Elbaz to Claude Montana in its long list of creative directors, it remains an important element of the rich history of French fashion houses.
49. Belstaff
For those who enjoy two-wheeled motor vehicles, you would be well aware of Belfast and its influence on motorcycle fashion. Founded in 1924 by Eli Belovitch and Harry Grosberg in Staffordshire. As the first company to use wax cotton, it paved the way for waterproof apparel. In the decades since, it has remained true to its heritage, crafting men’s and women’s outerwear and pieces designed for adventures and those on the go.
Designer Brands FAQs
What are the top designer clothing brands?
The top 10 designer clothing brands are Louis Vuitton, Gucci, Chanel, Dior, Balenciaga, Armani, Yves Saint Laurent, Burberry, Hermès, and Prada.
What is the most expensive designer brand?
The most expensive designer brand is Louis Vuitton which has a valuation of around $32.223 billion.
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