Born in Austin, Texas and raised in Santa Fe, New Mexico, Tom Ford is among the most highly respected and successful designers today. The winner of numerous design awards, his rise in fashion began in 1994, when he became creative director of Gucci. Not only did he dramatically change the image of the legendary fashion house, he also led the company to unprecedented success with his visionary insight into what the modern consumer desires. His innovative and provocative designs set the tone for an entirely new direction in the world of luxury goods. In 2000, Ford also took creative control of Yves Saint Laurent, a Gucci Group brand, reviving it with his trademark combination of sensuality and mystique. In April 2005, one year after leaving Gucci Group, he announced the creation of the TOM FORD brand. A beauty and eyewear collection launched in 2005 and 2006. In April 2007, his first directly operated retail store opened in New York at 845 Madison Avenue to coincide with the debut of the signature TOM FORD Menswear and Accessory Collection. Several landmark fragrances were launched in succession, including TOM FORD BLACK ORCHID and TOM FORD GREY VETIVER, as well as a scent collection for perfume connoisseurs called PRIVATE BLEND. In 2009, Ford directed, produced and co-wrote his first feature film entitled “A SINGLE MAN” through his film production company, FADE TO BLACK. The Oscar nominated film has received multiple awards including the 2009 Best Actor award for Colin Firth at the Venice Film Festival. In February 2011, the TOM FORD Womenswear Collection was introduced to clients worldwide. A potent vision of modern, feminine glamour, its exquisitely constructed and beautifully finished suiting, daywear, and eveningwear allow women of all ages to amplify their individuality and present their most glamorous selves to the world. In September 2011, TOM FORD introduced his first Cosmetics Collection, a complete range of Color and Skin Treatments. Presently, there are 64 freestanding stores and shop-in-shops in locations such as Beverly Hills, London, Milan, Tokyo, Las Vegas, Sydney, Dubai, Beirut, Zurich and Russia. Ford currently lives in London, Santa Fe and Los Angeles.