Within 20 years of his introduction to fashion Paul Smith had established himself as the pre-eminent British designer. Paul Smith has the ability to anticipate, and even spark off trends not only in fashion but in the wider context of popular culture. He manages to transmit a genuine sense of humour and mischief mixed with his love of tradition and the classics.

Two cool kids, one cool vision, growing up in England, Miranda Morrison spends hour after hour at the library, trying to figure out how the heck shoes are made. Meanwhile, far away in Nebraska, Kari Sigerson fills her days worshipping the white go-go boots her grandmother gave her. The two met while studying at the Fashion Institute of Technology in New York and soon started their namesake line in 1991, garnering rapid success with stylish Manhattanites.

Italian designer Valentino Garavani founded his namesake label in 1959 and has since become one of fashion's greats, synonymous with intricate ready-to-wear and sumptuous accessories. The only label to have designed wedding dresses for both Jackie O. and J. Lo, Valentino is synonymous with opulence, extravagance, and drama. In business since 1960, Valentino Garavani made his mark early with intricately detailed, luxurious gowns and tastefully body-conscious silhouettes—even perfecting his own shade of Valentino Red. Maria Grazia Chiuri and Pier Paolo Piccioli, who had previously designed accessories for the label, are now at the helm.