Written by Alejandra ST

Throughout the decades, we have seen women from all over the world become key figures in the fashion industry—as designers, photographers, businesswomen, models, and editors.
Each of them has showcased their talent, creativity, and intelligence, leaving a lasting mark on history. Their influence extends beyond fashion, inspiring future generations of women to take action and pursue their dreams.
Fashion is not just about what we wear—it is also about how we feel and what we want to project to the world. That is why we celebrate these women, who teach us that true power lies in being authentic and bold.
• Publicist Eleanor Lambert was born on August 10, 1903, in the United States. She was one of the most influential women in establishing New York City as one of the world’s fashion capitals by organizing New York Fashion Week. Additionally, Eleanor conceived the idea of creating a charity event to promote fashion in the United States, an event now known as the Met Gala.

• Journalist Carmel Snow was born on August 21, 1887, in Ireland. She is considered one of the most important fashion editors in history. As the editor of Harper’s Bazaar magazine, Carmel introduced renowned designers such as Cristóbal Balenciaga, Coco Chanel, and Elsa Schiaparelli, among others. Additionally, she was the one who coined the iconic name “New Look” for Christian Dior’s famous design.

• Designer Mary Quant was born on February 11, 1930, in London. She became world-famous in the 1960s for popularizing the miniskirt, a piece that became a symbol of women’s liberation.

• Designer Elsa Schiaparelli was born on September 10, 1890, in Rome. Her designs were always influenced by art. As a key representative of surrealism in fashion, her creations stood out in the 1930s and 1940s

• Supermodel Twiggy was born on September 19, 1949, in London. A model, actress, and singer, she became the world’s first supermodel and the face of the 1960s.

• Businesswoman and designer Miuccia Prada was born on May 10, 1949. At an early age, she had to take over the family business, a leather goods company. Over the years, Miuccia transformed Prada into one of the most important fashion houses of the 21st century, expanding it to include women’s and men’s clothing, footwear, sunglasses, accessories, fragrances, makeup, and, of course, leather bags.

• Journalist and editor Diana Vreeland was born on September 29, 1903, in Paris. She worked for two of the most important fashion magazines: Harper’s Bazaar and Vogue. She introduced photographers such as Cecil Beaton and models like Lauren Hutton to the industry. She was also the woman who first incorporated fashion exhibitions into the Met Gala.

• Designer and businesswoman Coco Chanel was born on August 19, 1883, in France. She led the fashion industry in the early 20th century and created one of the most famous perfumes in the world: Chanel No. 5.

• Designer Vivienne Westwood was born on April 8, 1941. She was one of the pioneers in introducing and embracing the punk aesthetic. Additionally, Vivienne is one of the designers who has worked most actively to protect the environment.

• Photographer Annie Leibovitz was born on October 2, 1949. Recognized as one of the world’s leading portrait photographers, Annie has worked on editorial and advertising campaigns in the fashion industry.

• Editor Anna Wintour was born on November 3, 1949, in the United Kingdom. She has worked for Vogue magazine since the 1980s, holding various positions. Over the years, Anna has established herself as one of the most influential women in fashion.

The power and creativity of these women have redefined the rules of an industry that is constantly evolving.
Each of them has left an indelible mark, proving that fashion is not just about clothing but also a force that drives cultural and social change.
Their legacy inspires us to dream big and believe in creativity and empowerment.
Writing by Alejandra St for Mighty Magazine.