CHAPTER 2: NICOLAS GHESQUIERE, THE INNOVATOR

Nicolas Ghesquière

Nicolas Ghesquière was born in Comines (Nord-Pas-de-Calais) in 1971.
At the age of 15, Nicolas Ghesquière makes his debut in the world of fashion thanks to several apprenticeships. After finishing his studies in 1991, he becomes Creative Assistant at Jean Paul Gaultier.

           He joins Balenciaga in 1995 and becomes Creative Director in 1997. He quickly stands out with his sculpted, futuristic silhouettes and his embodiment of Parisian chic. During three seasons he creates collections for various brands, including the Italian brand Callaghan.
In October 2001, he is named Best Designer of the Year by the CFDA. He is featured in Times magazine among the 100 Most Influential People of 2006 and is named Knight of the Order of Arts and Letters the following year.

          Regarded as one of the most exciting designers in his generation, he is known for starting trends with worldwide impact.
On 5 November 2013, Nicolas Ghesquière joins Louis Vuitton as an Artistic Director of women's collections.
In November 2014, a year after his arrival at Louis Vuitton, he receives the Fashion Innovator of the Year award from the Wall Street Journal, and is cited as the International Designer of the Year in December by the British Fashion Awards.