With its never-ending array of trends, it’s no surprise that fashion has taken the spotlight in North America. From local designers to international luxury brands, there’s no shortage of flair and creativity to be discovered. Now, let’s take a look at the finest runway designers from around North America – the ones setting the tone and setting trends for some of the world’s most stylish cities. From the rugged contributions of Alaska to the bright and exciting creations of Texas, come explore the North American runway designers leading the fashion scene.
1. Celebrating North American Runway Designers
The American runway is full of spectacular designers and talents. From Ralph Lauren to Calvin Klein, these North American designers have shaped the fashion scene by introducing trends that have evolved the way clothing is made and worn. Here, we take a moment to celebrate the creativity and impact of a few of North America’s most renowned designers.
- Calvin Klein – best known for his iconic ‘90s ads featuring Marky Mark, Calvin Klein is a revolutionary in American fashion. His minimalistic cuts and materials carried a new look to the fashion industry in the 1990s. His approach to dramatic, elegant, and gender-neutral fashion opened doors for numerous other fashion designers across the world.
- Ralph Lauren – the king of American fashion, polo Ralph Lauren. His classic American designs, from luxury blazers to designer denim, have stood the test of time. For over 50 years, his sophisticated and casual clothing have been timeless staples of American fashion. Ralph Lauren has brought global recognition to the American fashion scene.
- Christian Siriano – hailing from Maryland, this designer has been wowing us with his bold looks for over a decade. He opened his first atelier in 2008 and has since gone on to dress many big names, including Nicki Minaj and Zendaya. His empowering, timeless designs have helped to bridge the gap between high-end couture and street style.
- Tom Ford – the fabled designer made waves with his take on tailoring. Ford has a cutting-edge approach to fashion that is unrivaled. His clothing often features luxurious materials such as velvet, fur, and leather, and his designs defy expectations. Ford has helped modernize American fashion with his bold and daring looks.
Each of these designers has made an immense mark on the fashion industry, propelling North American style to new heights. From minimalist cuts to glamorous designs, their contributions and creativity have inspired others and changed the scope of fashion.
No matter what your style is, North American runway designs are sure to fit the bill. From flamboyant designs to timeless classics, the American runway is chock full of inspiring fashion pieces.
What makes these North American designs so exciting is their ability to stand out. Bold colors, intricate embellishments, and structural elements create clothes that are both exquisite and evocative of the designer’s own singular aesthetic.
2. Forging a Path in the Global Fashion Industry
Forging a career in the global fashion industry can be a daunting prospect. From big-name designers to boutique stores, navigating the ins and outs of the fashion world can be a long, steep learning curve.
One great thing about the fashion industry is its openness to newcomers – provided you have some form of fashion education, you can be in the same room as the industry leaders.
It may be helpful to start small. To begin, find a mentor in your chosen field. This person should not only have expertise in the area, but also be current and have the big-picture knowledge that comes with being in the fashion business. Working with a mentor will give you insight into the day-to-day operations of the industry, as well as give you a real-world view of the direction of the industry.
Look to secure internships, where you’ll get to work with people in the industry and learn the skills necessary to create a successful fashion career. It is also beneficial to join industry associations such as the Council of Fashion Designers of America or the British Fashion Council, as they often offer programmes and opportunities to help break into the industry.
Networking is key. Whether it’s meeting people at conferences or just constant networking between friends, networking is the best way to expand your industry contacts and grow your personal network.
Be sure to stay on top of trends and developments in fashion. As well as attending the trade shows and fashion weeks, follow social media accounts on platforms like Twitter and Instagram to stay in the loop. Stay abreast of changes in the industry to ensure your skills stay in demand.
With a passion for fashion and a commitment to embracing opportunities, the global fashion industry is yours to explore and conquer!
3. An Exploration of Notable North American Designers
Wayne Clough
An alumnus of the famed Rhode Island School of Design, Wayne Clough has moved up in the ranks of design for rural and city centers alike. Throughout his career, he has maintained an intense focus on clean geometric design in homes, public buildings, and offices. He has worked to combine modern concepts with traditional design to create a space which is functional, unique, and aesthetically pleasing. Clough’s success can be seen in the array of award-winning projects across North America, including a prominent renovation of Juno Beach Centre in Ontario.
Brad Cloepfil
Portland-based designer Brad Cloepfil has been focused on urban design for nearly three decades. From incorporating structural elements to a structure’s design, to transforming urban spaces into abstract works of art, Cloepfil is the man behind some of North America’s most unique and innovative designs. His skillset can be seen in the stunning transformation of his company’s building and The Portland State University Campus.
Gregory Colston
Gregory Colston has long been considered a master of minimalism, with an eye for clean, contemporary designs. Since graduating from the Pratt Institute, Colston has kept a lot of his work focused in the United States South, creating structures and designs that take contemporary and classical elements and marry them in a cohesive and beautiful manner. His most recognizable piece of work is undoubtedly the Robert Beckman House, an L.A. area home which has been featured in multiple design magazines.
Tom Kundig
Washington-based designer Tom Kundig has coined the term ‘cathedral modernism’, a concept which has been the bedrock of his work for over two decades. Kundig is known for taking basic minimalism and industrial elements and developing them into elaborate but minimal designs which provide an air of luxury and beauty. His notable works include The Rolling Huts, the Pupil’s House, and the Kirkland Museum.
Andrea Walsh
Specializing in industrial interior design, Andrea Walsh’s aesthetic revolves around clean lines and an area’s natural elements. Walsh’s method is simple, yet practical, and she has been praised for her handle on integrating modern concepts with existing structures. Walsh’s work can be seen in the McKittrick Hotel in Brooklyn, New York.
Ray Kappe
Ray Kappe is a design legend, with an impressive portfolio of designs across North America. His skillset is at the forefront of modern home design, which takes into account the surrounding environment and the home’s natural aesthetic. Kappe’s portfolio of designs includes the Parviz Tanavoli House in Vancouver and the Barry Shields House in Los Angeles.
4. The Influence of North America on the International Fashion Scene
With its iconic fashions and unparalleled trends, North America has been a major influence on the international fashion scene for years. From Los Angeles to New York and everywhere in between, the US and Canada have been a hotbed for up-and-coming designers.
North America’s influence on the world of fashion starts at the source—the media. Popular television shows such as Gossip Girl and Sex and the City showcase the latest fashions from around the world, garnering attention from viewers in different countries. Add to that the power of celebrity endorsements, and it’s easy to see how US- and Canadian-based designers can reach a worldwide demographic.
It only makes sense that North American fashion aficionados have embraced a global style. From London to Milan, New York to Tokyo, what’s considered fashionable is often the same. Popular retailers, such as Nordstrom and Bloomingdale’s in the US, offer the latest fashions from around the world, and the popular websites of designers like DVF and Tory Burch are accessible with the click of a button.
Given the visual power of the US and Canadian fashion industry, it’s no surprise that luxury labels like Louis Vuitton, Chanel, and Dior have made strong investments in the North American markets. This presence hasn’t gone unnoticed by customers, and the majority of luxury goods tend to be sold on the continent. From tailored suits and high-end ready-to-wear to the latest streetwear, you can find it all.
Nowadays, the influence of North America is seen in the trends and styles of fashion throughout the world. Major cities such as New York and Los Angeles are mainstays in the global fashion curriculum—from luxury, apparel, and accessories to streetwear. In a few words, North America’s influence on the international fashion scene is profound. It’s no wonder people around the world look to us for sartorial inspiration.
Fashion’s Finest: North American Runway Designers have left an indelible mark on the world of fashion. From New York to California, their work has been a notable part of the fashion landscape over the years. For these innovative and creative runway designers, the future of fashion looks brighter than ever before. Fashion on!
