Meet LGBT History Month icon Marc Jacobs
Marc Jacobs
(Editor’s note: October is LGBT History Month, celebrated annually to recognize the notable achievements of LGBT people throughout time. Each day this month, Equality Forum will feature one LGBT icon who has made notable contributions to society and SDGLN will publish the story here in the Causes section. View previous LGBT History Month icons HERE.)
Marc Jacobs, born in 1963, is an internationally renowned American fashion designer best known for his own label and his work with Louis Vuitton. His designs have explored the spaces between clashing influences such as androgyny, traditional Japan and rock ’n’ roll.
As vice president of women’s wear at Perry Ellis, Jacobs assembled a luxury grunge collection with flannel shirts made of silk and thermal underwear made of cashmere. The mix of high couture and street fashion was polarizing. Critics lauded Jacobs; Perry Ellis fired him. Jacobs launched his own label and his unconventionality propelled him to a post as creative director for Louis Vuitton.
The designer’s artistic intuition helps guide him through the turbulent world of fashion. As Jacobs put it, “When I go against what I feel and do what I’m obliged to do, I’m always unhappy.” His instincts animate his designs with a spirit that transcends traditional fashion.
The Marc Jacobs label reflects that spirit: “diametrically opposed, yet completely signature.”
The winner of prestigious fashion awards, Jacobs was recognized in 2010 as one of Time magazine’s 100 most influential people in the world. In 2012 OUT Magazine ranked him among the 50 most powerful gay men and women in America. In 2013 Diet Coke named Jacobs creative director to celebrate the brand’s 30th anniversary with a “stylish and light-hearted” makeover. Jacobs continues to change the way the world sees fashion.
Notable quote
“That’s what I think everyone should aspire to in life — being shameless.”
