In the past two centuries, fashion went from being a vague concept to a powerful artistic force, thanks to gifted and ambitious individuals worldwide. Featuring 75 of the world's most influential designers, this chronological survey presents the story of fashion through their often fascinating personal lives and achievements. Here are profiles of such figures as Elsa Schiaparelli, Christian Dior, Giorgio Armani, Yves Saint Laurent, Calvin Klein, Gianni Versace, Donna Karan, Miuccia Prada, and Alexander McQueen, discussed in entries that contain biographical information, key dates from their careers, and photographs of their creations.