It's Not Too Late To Start

From Vera Wang to Christian Dior, there are numerous highly successful fashion icons and entrepreneurs who didn't gain success until later in life. So, to anyone who wishes they started their own endeavors when they were younger: this article is for you. 

Here are four fashion icons who didn't launch their own brands and gain success until later in life. 

1. Tory Burch: 

This well known designer didn’t launch her own fashion label until she was 37 years old. Tory Burch began in the fashion world by working for well known designers including Vera Wang and Ralph Lauren. Eventually, at the age of 37 years old, she launched her own fashion brand, opening her first store in Manhattan. She is well known for her bohemian-preppy style. Over the years, her brand expanded and has gained international recognition.

2. Vera Wang:

This well known designer didn't start debuting her own designs until she was 40 years old. Vera Wang used to be a figure skater before she entered the fashion world. She got her start in fashion at Vogue, and worked as a senior fashion editor there for 15 years. She also went on to serve as a design director at Ralph Lauren. Vera Wang designed her own bridal gown in preparation for her wedding. The following year, at 40 years old, the designer opened her bridal boutique on Madison Avenue in New York City. Since then, she has gained international recognition for her bridal wear and has expanded to other areas of design including jewelry, lingerie and more. 

3. Christian Dior:

This luxury designer didn't launch the House of Dior until he was 41 years old. Christian Dior had an interest in art from a young age, but was unable to fully pursue his passions until later in life. Through his late 20’s, Dior worked to make ends meet by selling his fashion sketches. Then, he became a magazine illustrator, and then a design assistant. However, his artistic trajectory was interrupted when he served as an officer in the French army during World War II. After the war ended, Dior returned to Paris to work in the fashion world. At the age of 41 years old, Christian Dior founded his fashion house. His post-World War II designs were very popular, and Dior is a famous luxury brand recognized around the world to this day. 

4. Giorgio Armani:

This well known designer didn't launch his label until he was 41 years old. Before pursuing fashion, Giorgio Armani was attending university to pursue a career in medicine. After completing his military service, he left university and began to pursue a career in fashion. He worked as a designer for Nino Cerruti, and began doing design work for other companies too. At 41 years old, he launched his own fashion label. Since then, he has been internationally recognized for his designs. 

These are just a few examples of fashion designers and entrepreneurs who gained success later in life. It’s never too late to pursue your passions and follow your dreams!

Did you feel inspired by any of these examples? Do you have your own story you'd like to share? Let us know in the comments below!