There are certain names that truly invoke an image of beautiful, creative and inspired fashion. These fashion icons stand as pillars of achievement in their field, laying the grid work for how we dress and what we consider stylish.
Erte
Erte is an oft forgotten icon in the world of fashion, but one of the most theatrically gifted designers the world has ever seen. Known more for his innovative draping and reconstruction of garments than for his everyday clothing, he became royalty in the world of costuming.
His fantastic artwork graced many covers of Harper's Bazaar from 1915 to 1937. The pictures were both masterpieces of fashion and artistic composition. He is considered a main influence in the "Art Deco" style and his work can be seen in major art museums worldwide.
Coco Chanel
Famous fashion icons cannot be mentioned without the name Coco Chanel. The revolutionary designer paved the way for what we now consider classic style. She created the timeless "little black dress" and brought a new simplicity to women's fashion.
"Fashion fades, only style remains the same." This is one of the most famous quotes from Chanel, and it sums up her view on the clothing industry perfectly. Starting in the 1920's and continuing until her death in the 1970's, she led the way for innovation in fashion.
Coco Chanel's signature perfume, Chanel No. 5, is still the best selling scent in the world. Her Paris apartment has been preserved as she left it and is a tourist attraction for fashion enthusiasts everywhere.
Audrey Hepburn
Another timeless icon in the fashion industry is definitely the elf-like Audrey Hepburn. The beautiful actress helped cement the "little black dress" into fashion history with her popular movies and impeccable style.
Once Hepburn paired with the designer Hubert Givenchy, the fashion industry was never the same. Hepburn's natural elegance matched with Givenchy's natural talent gave rise to a simple, sleek and timeless silhouette that young starlet's still try to emulate to this day.
Calvin Klein
For a more modern icon, you simply cannot get more subtle and consistent than Calvin Klein. His landmark commercial, featuring a young Brooke Shields claiming nothing came between her and her Calvin Klein jeans, definitely ruffled some feathers.
However, Calvin Klein's class and taste have never come under question. His creations have become so basic to the fashion world that his constant presence and inspiration is sometimes overlooked.
 | Fashion tips change through the seasons, but they really boil down to a few basic rules that help you work with what you have. Wear colors that complement your skin tone, choose cuts that follow your natural shape and stick to natural fibers. |
 | Leggings, shoulder pads, even acid wash. The fashion of the '80s is back. Learn how to pull off the look this time around. |
 | Learn how to wear cuffed jeans and you can get more mileage out of your denim wardrobe by creating new looks to mix and match with pieces you already own. Not all jeans look good cuffed, so to avoid looking bad, discover the right way to wear your jeans cuffed. |
Classic fashion styles are the looks that last through the ages and appear flattering on almost anyone. They go beyond trends and are a triumph of art. Despite the decade, figure or fashion, classic styles are always a demonstration of truly refined taste. |
Learning how to be preppy only starts with the clothes you wear. The prep school vibe and the implied social status that comes with takes a bit more know how. |
