“That was a major goal for me – to be able to reach and encourage more women, to encourage them to express themselves and be what they want to be. People get very trapped where they are.” – Vera Wang 

This week we are celebrating acclaimed American fashion designer and entrepreneur Vera Wang! Vera is best known for revolutionizing the bridal industry with her modern, elegant, and luxurious wedding gowns.

Born on June 27, 1949, in New York City to Chinese immigrant parents, Vera initially pursued a career in figure skating before turning to fashion. After graduating from Sarah Lawrence College and studying fashion at Parsons, she began her career at Vogue, where she became the magazine’s youngest ever fashion editor at age 23. After 17 years at Vogue and a stint as Design Director at Ralph Lauren, she launched her own bridal label in 1990. Vera stated, “When I decided to get married at 40, I couldn’t find a dress with the modernity or sophistication I wanted. That’s when I saw the opportunity for a wedding gown business.”

Opening her first flagship salon at the Carlyle Hotel in New York City, Vera introduced a contemporary edge to bridal fashion, blending classic elegance with innovative design. Her unique vision quickly earned her a loyal celebrity following and propelled her brand to global prominence. Over the years, Vera Wang has expanded her business into eveningwear, ready-to-wear fashion, fragrances, eyewear, accessories, and home décor. Her brand now includes licensing deals and retail partnerships that bring luxury aesthetics to a wider audience, including collaborations with David’s Bridal and Kohl’s.

With a multi-decade career marked by creativity, strategic brand extensions, and a keen sense for luxury marketing, Vera Wang has built an enduring fashion empire. Her designs have graced red carpets, Olympic podiums, and high-profile weddings worldwide, solidifying her status as a visionary in both fashion and business.