As Haider Ackermann prepares to make his much-anticipated debut as the new creative director of Tom Ford, the fashion world is eager to see how he will infuse his signature sleek tailoring and poetic minimalism into the bold, seductive DNA of the house. But before unveiling his first collection, Ackermann is reflecting on the past—revealing his top three favorite Tom Ford collections that have influenced and inspired him.
A Legacy of Glamour & Provocation
Tom Ford is synonymous with luxury, sensuality, and boundary-pushing style. From his transformative work at Gucci and Yves Saint Laurent to the creation of his eponymous label, Ford redefined modern fashion with his sharp tailoring, opulent fabrics, and daringly provocative designs.
For Ackermann, stepping into this legacy is both an honor and a challenge—but looking back at Ford’s most defining collections offers a glimpse into what may inspire his own vision for the brand.
Haider Ackermann’s Top 3 Tom Ford Collections
1. Tom Ford for Gucci Fall 1995 – The Birth of Cool
Ackermann has cited this collection as a game-changer in the fashion industry. Marking the beginning of Ford’s reign at Gucci, the Fall 1995 collection was an elegant, sensual take on minimalism. With its slim velvet suits, unbuttoned silk blouses, and jewel-toned gowns, it brought a new level of confidence and sex appeal to luxury fashion—a bold move that revived Gucci’s identity and set the tone for Ford’s future influence.
2. Tom Ford for Yves Saint Laurent Fall 2002 – Parisian Seduction
When Ford took over Yves Saint Laurent Rive Gauche, he blended his signature aesthetic with the heritage of French elegance. His Fall 2002 collection is a standout for Ackermann because of its exquisite craftsmanship, razor-sharp silhouettes, and sultry attitude. The plunging dresses, rich jewel tones, and ultra-sleek tailoring captured the essence of Parisian seduction, making it one of Ford’s most memorable and refined collections.
3. Tom Ford Spring 2011 – The Exclusive Comeback
After stepping away from fashion for several years, Ford’s Spring 2011 womenswear debut was one of the most anticipated runway moments in history. Instead of a traditional runway show, he opted for an intimate, ultra-exclusive presentation, featuring powerhouse models and muses like Beyoncé and Julianne Moore. The collection itself was a masterclass in understated luxury, with impeccably tailored suits, soft draping, and a hint of old-school Hollywood glamour—a moment that Ackermann finds particularly inspiring for its confidence and quiet power.
What This Means for Ackermann’s Tom Ford Era
As Haider Ackermann prepares to step into Tom Ford’s shoes, his admiration for these collections suggests that his vision may be a harmonious blend of precision tailoring, timeless sensuality, and modern refinement. Known for his fluid, sculptural designs and artistic approach to fashion, Ackermann is expected to bring a fresh yet respectful take on Ford’s legacy.
With his first collection on the horizon, one thing is clear: Haider Ackermann’s Tom Ford will be a captivating evolution of elegance and edge.