Paul Poiret

Profession: Fashion Designer and Couturier

Nationality:

Biography: Paul Poiret was a renowned French fashion designer who revolutionized women's fashion in the early 20th century. Poiret's innovative designs and marketing strategies fundamentally changed the fashion industry, making him one of the most influential figures in its history.

Poiret began his career in fashion as an assistant for the prominent Parisian couturier Jacques Doucet. He later worked for the House of Worth, where his talent for design quickly made him a standout figure. In 1903, he established his own fashion house, which would become a platform for his groundbreaking ideas and designs.

Among Poiret's many contributions to fashion was his revolutionary decision to free women from the constraining corsets that dominated the fashion of the time. He introduced high-waisted, empire line dresses and hobble skirts, which emphasized a more natural silhouette. Poiret is also credited with inventing the "lampshade" tunic and the "harem" pants.

Poiret was not just a designer, but also an astute businessman. He was one of the first designers to understand the potential of branding and expanded his business to include perfumes and cosmetics, creating a total aesthetic that was distinctly his own. His extravagant fashion shows and use of celebrity endorsements were also groundbreaking strategies that shaped the modern fashion industry.

Born: April 20, 1879
Birthplace: Paris, France
Star Sign: Taurus

Died: April 30, 1944 (aged 65)