Perry Ellis Designer Date of Birth: 03.03.1940 Country: USA

1. Early Life and Education
2. Military Service and Graduate Studies
3. Fashion Career
4. Success and Expansion
5. Awards and Recognition

Early Life and Education

Perry Ellis was born in Portsmouth, Virginia on March 3, 1940, to a middle-class family. His father owned a coal and oil business. Perry attended Woodrow Wilson High School in 1957 before pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Management from the College of William and Mary in 1961.

Military Service and Graduate Studies

After completing college, Ellis enlisted in the United States Coast Guard Reserve before enrolling at New York University, where he earned a Master's degree in Retailing in 1963.

Fashion Career

In the mid-1970s, Ellis launched his first collection, showcasing his exceptional sportswear designs. He quickly established himself as one of the leading American sportswear designers of the time. Ellis opened a showroom on Seventh Avenue in New York City and became the chief designer and president of his company. He expanded his menswear collection to include shoes, accessories, furs, and fragrances.

Success and Expansion

By 1982, Perry Ellis Inc. employed over 75 people. In 1984, Ellis partnered with Levi Strauss & Co. to create Perry Ellis America, which generated sales of $250 million within a few years. Ellis died at the peak of his fame at the age of 46.

Awards and Recognition

Ellis's contributions to the fashion industry were widely recognized. He received numerous prestigious awards from fashion organizations. His legacy continues through the Perry Ellis Award, which is presented annually to an outstanding figure in the fashion world.