Hermès

Date Founded: 1837
Most Notable Designers: Thierry Hermès (1837 - 1878), Catherine de Karolyi (1967 - 1980), Martin Margiela (1988 - 2003), Jean-Paul Gaultier (2003 - 2010), Christophe Lemaire (2010 - present)
Muses Throughout History: Grace Kelly, Jane Birkin
Most Famous Contribution To Fashion: Hermès is responsible for creating two of the most iconic bags known to fashion — the Kelly bag in the 1930s and the Birkin bag in the 1970s. Its silk scarves and Collier de Chien cuffs are still dream-ticket accessories for fashion folk.
House Drama: Hermès has long been embroiled in knock-off investigations and lawsuits, and it recently won $100 million against counterfeiters, many of whom were house employees.

Illustrations by Gabriela Alford