From Versace to Valentino, take a peek behind the labels that have defined men’s formalwear. Through trial, tribulation, unexpected deaths, and iconic on-screen moments, these luxury houses continue to rule the fashion roost.

Brioni
Founded in Rome, 1945

Classic cuts made for the ever-confident guy, charismatic businessman, and bona fide bad boy. Brioni is known as the official suit of James Bond (worn by actors Pierce Brosnan and Daniel Craig) and was made infamous by New York crime boss John Gotti of the Gambino family – who earned his nickname, “Dapper Don,” thanks to his extensive wardrobe of custom Brioni suits. These timeless pieces were also favorites of handsome Hollywood hall-of-famers Clark Gable and Cary Grant, and can be seen on today’s red carpets on the likes of Al Pacino, Kirk Douglas, and Donald Trump.

Versace
Founded in Milan, 1978

Contemporary, one-of-a-kind, stand-out-from-the-crowd pieces, these suits are for the man who likes to make an entrance. Worn famously by rap stars and musicians alike, the distinguished Versace name is associated with glamour and over-the-top chic. Elton John dons Versace duds encrusted with diamonds or crystals. Versace designs were also favorites of the late rap star Tupac Shakur and Guns N’ Roses frontman Axl Rose.

Yves Saint Laurent
Founded in Paris, 1962

YSL defined Parisian fashion for decades and made ready-to-wear clothing as covetable as couture. After the death of the founding designer (and namesake) in 2008, the former Dior Homme creative director took the helm and unexpectedly announced in June, 2012, that the fashion house would be renamed Saint Laurent Paris. Still, the late designer’s legacy will forever be honored and revered. The YSL guy? Chivalrous and refined.

Valentino
Founded in Rome, 1959 (first menswear shop, 1971)

By the mid-1960s, founder Valentino Garavani was considered the virtuoso of Italian couture. After receiving the Neiman Marcus Award in 1967, his designs were worn frequently by royalty and political magnates alike. Ultra masculine, suave, and a tad playful, the Valentino man loves culture, tradition, and leisure.

His Luxe Suit: Ermenegildo Zegna & More opens Thursday, December 13, at 3PM ET.

By Julia Ivins, Staff Writer

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