Although fashion might seem like an insular industry with an inner circle that’s tough to crack, it is also pretty forgiving when it comes to career pivots. Stars in need of an identity makeover have turned to fashion to reinvent themselves, turning out bespoke lines that have won over even the harshest critics.
While already-famous folks like Victoria Beckham and the Olsen twins have turned to fashion design as the second chapter of their lives, younger stars like Zendaya and the Jenner sisters have used it as a natural way of expanding their existing careers in entertainment. Not everyone on this list needed to reinvent themselves, but they all share one thing in common: actual design skill. Seriously, these 14 celebrity-designed fashion lines are really good.
The Row by Mary Kate and Ashley Olsen
Over time, child stars Mary Kate and Ashley Olsen have transformed into some of the most respected fashion designers on the New York scene. The Row’s monastic collections – signified by longline silhouettes and elegant draping – are sourced from extraordinarily luxurious fabrics, earning both a high price tag and a huge following of fashion claqueurs. In particular, the brand’s expansion into luxury handbags has been a popular selling point. The Olsens have also been exploring interior design as of late, even going so far as to fill their NYFW sets with collectible furniture pieces for sale.
Adidas Yeezy by Kanye West
While the sold-out popularity of Kanye West’s Yeezy line – particularly his ‘Boost’ sneakers – need not be disputed, few remember his first foray into fashion in 2011 or his critically panned inaugural show at Paris Fashion Week. The rap star has come a long way in fashion during the past six years, thanks in large part to the support of VIPs like Carine Roitfeld, who legitimized him as a fashion designer in the eyes of the industry by publicly supporting his Adidas collaboration. As a genuine fan of fashion, West’s enthusiasm for design has been parlayed into a collection of athluxury separates and footwear that are notable for their strict monochrome palette sprinkled with the occasional camo pattern.
Edun by Bono of U2
It may seem a little silly that a member of U2, one of the biggest rock bands in the world, could also be responsible for a well-designed, thoughtful, and sustainably sourced fashion line – but that’s exactly what you get with Bono’s Edun. This fashion brand has proven its staying power, having been established by the musician in 2005 and then sold to LVMH in 2009. While Bono is a founder of the brand, its Creative Director is actually Danielle Sherman, who has carried Bono’s fair trade vision into a successful future.
Kendall + Kylie by Kendall and Kylie Jenner
Like many of the Insta-famous from their generation, Kendall and Kylie Jenner have found business-savvy ways to turn their star power into thriving careers in fashion and entertainment. Kendall + Kylie, their co-designed and rather affordable fashion line, recently sold out within minutes, proving that the sisters really do have a knack for what’s next in fashion.
October's Very Own by Drake
Drake fans – who want nothing more than to bite a little Dreezy steez – were overjoyed when the rapper announced the debut of his clothing line October’s Very Own in 2010. What started as a collaboration with Canada Goose and Air Jordan became a line for Drake merchandise, before evolving to include a legit collection of street-style menswear in 2012. Drake surprised everyone again in 2015 by expanding his line to include womenswear. Today, October’s Very Own is known for its comfortable, everyday basics with loud “OVO” logos in gold lettering. The musician further cemented his status as a fashion designer by opening up flagship locations of the brand in both Los Angeles and New York City.
Victoria Beckham
Victoria Beckham’s career has been a rollercoaster ride, from Posh Spice to Mrs. Becks to a bona fide fashion designer. Her eponymous line has passed its ten-year mark with flying colors and is one of the most popular celebrity-designed lines in the world. Although Beckham started out by creating collections that followed her signature body-conscious style, her line evolved as she did. Now, Victoria Beckham is a reliable source of oversized suiting, minimalist handbags, and luxurious separates. There’s even a sister line called Victoria Victoria Beckham, which is slightly more affordable.
Ivy Park by Beyoncé
When Beyoncé announced the emergence of her new athleticwear line Ivy Park, fans went crazy for a chance to cop some of the star’s high-octane style. The buzz was big, especially since the first Ivy Park release was timed to coincide with the debut of “Formation”. The first collection featured 200 products, ranging in price from $30 to $200, and has since expanded its sizing and offerings following the retail seasons.
House of Harlow by Nicole Richie
Another celebrity-designed fashion line with incredible staying power is House of Harlow by former reality star Nicole Richie. Starting out as a jewelry line, it debuted at LA-based cult favorite boutique Kitson in 2008, but has since expanded into clothing. Richie’s recent collaboration with Revolve is filled with adorable rompers, off-shoulder tops, sheer jumpsuits, and other stylish pieces.
Daya by Zendaya
Former Disney star Zendaya took the fashion world by storm as an influential style icon, but it wasn’t long before she decided to branch out into design. In 2016, Zendaya casually announced the arrival of her new clothing line Daya by Zendaya, via Instagram. What’s surprising about the line is just how stylish it is — every collection has featured super current trends with a unique twist. Plus, Zendaya scores major bonus points for creating gender-neutral clothes and shooting campaigns that feature a broad range of body types.
Fenty x Puma by Rihanna
From fashion icon to the face of Dior to fashion designer, Rihanna’s star just keeps rising. Although we’re literally obsessed with all things RiRi, we could’ve never predicted just how forward-thinking her Fenty x Puma line would be. Not only is she the reason that fur slides and creepers are suddenly everywhere, but her baroque rendition of sportswear also took Paris Fashion Week by storm. Rihanna has both exceeded expectations with a sartorially savvy debut and continues to impress with her brilliant collections.
SJP by Sarah Jessica Parker
Sarah Jessica Parker’s career was transformed by her role as Carrie Bradshaw on Sex and the City. From actress to perennial style icon, her trajectory has certainly changed since her HBO days – right now, she’s a full-fledged shoe designer and crushing the game with her fun, flirty, and colorful SJP collections.
Draper James by Reese Witherspoon
Reese Witherspoon’s sunny disposition and preppy sense of style have translated seamlessly into her clothing and lifestyle brand Draper James.
Good American by Khloe Kardashian
The Kardashian-Jenner clan is astonishingly adept at translating star power into money in the bank by way of branded releases. However, Khloe Kardashian’s true passion for outfitting women of all sizes in flattering jeans has made her Good American line more than just a vanity project. Her collections are entirely inclusive, made for every body type from size 00 to 24, and each style is broken down by what it flatters most like “Good Legs” and “Good Waist”. Lately, she’s also branched into tracksuits, sheer mesh tops, and other ready-to-wear favorites.
Dear Drew by Drew Barrymore
Positivity is the central thesis of Drew Barrymore’s brand new fashion line Dear Drew, which is why a selection of her apparel and accessories bears slogans like “You Are Strong”. Her line is only available at Amazon Fashion, and is packed with colorful printed dresses, sleek leather clutches, jewelry, scarves, and even hair styling tools.