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Marc Jacobs
2014 Icon
Fashion Designer
b. April 9, 1963, New York, New York
“That’s what I think everyone should aspire to in life—being shameless.”
Marc Jacobs is an internationally renowned American fashion designer best known for his own label and his work with Louis Vuitton. His designs have explored the spaces between clashing influences such as androgyny, traditional Japan and rock ’n’ roll.
As vice president of women’s wear at Perry Ellis, Jacobs assembled a luxury grunge collection with flannel shirts made of silk and thermal underwear made of cashmere. The mix of high couture and street fashion was polarizing. Critics lauded Jacobs; Perry Ellis fired him. Jacobs launched his own label and his unconventionality propelled him to a post as creative director for Louis Vuitton.
The designer’s artistic intuition helps guide him through the turbulent world of fashion. As Jacobs put it, “When I go against what I feel and do what I’m obliged to do, I’m always unhappy.” His instincts animate his designs with a spirit that transcends traditional fashion.
The Marc Jacobs label reflects that spirit: “diametrically opposed, yet completely signature.”
The winner of prestigious fashion awards, Jacobs was recognized in 2010 as one of Time magazine’s 100 most influential people in the world. In 2012 OUT Magazine ranked him among the 50 most powerful gay men and women in America. In 2013 Diet Coke named Jacobs creative director to celebrate the brand’s 30th anniversary with a “stylish and light-hearted” makeover. Jacobs continues to change the way the world sees fashion.
