Marc Jacobs

Guide Note

Marc Jacobs is an American fashion designer known for the clothing lines Marc Jacobs and the less expensive Marc By Marc Jacobs. A favorite among celebrities, Jacobs' ad campaigns have featured Michael Stipe, Sofia Coppola, and Victoria Beckham.

Fast Facts

1. Founded Jacobs Duffy Designs in 1984
2. Worked for Perry Ellis
3. Named CFDA Women's Designer of the Year in 1992
4. Named Louis Vuitton artistic director in 1997
5. Created Marc By Marc Jacobs in 2001

The Jacobs Journey

Jacobs began his love for fashion as a stockboy working in an avant-garde boutique at the age of fifteen. Soon after he attended Parsons School of Design in New York and during his schooling won the Perry Ellis Award in 1984. While in school, Jacobs began designing hand-knit sweaters and soon found himself working at Perry Ellis. In 1986 Jacobs designed his first full collection under the label Marc Jacobs.

The Look

Jacobs uses bright colors, large prints and empire lines with his clothing. It's an unapologetic exploration of pretty meets party with layers and lines. His look continues with oversized handbags and sunglasses that conceal yet still garner attention from the onlooker.

Who Wears It

Hollywood loves Marc Jacobs. From the red carpet to the concrete streets, the clothing of Jacobs can be seen on the likes of Gwyneth Paltrow, Sarah Jessica Parker, Amanda Peet and Winona Ryder.

Jacobs on Jacobs

Jacobs on his clothes..."what I prefer is that even if someone feels hedonistic, they don’t look it. Curiosity about sex is much more interesting to me than domination. ... My clothes are not hot. Never. Never."