Remembered fondly with a nod to his architecture education as the “Frank Lloyd Wright of Italian Fashion” and the “Architect of Fashion,” Milanese designer Gianfranco Ferré spent a lifetime creating handbags, dresses, jackets and other garments and accessories that were defined by meticulous tailoring and crisp geometry. Designing the iconic Lady Dior handbag after being named artistic director at Dior during the late 1980s is only one of Ferré’s impressive achievements in the fashion industry.
Ferré was born in Legnano and was raised by his mother and two aunts. He studied architecture at Milan Polytechnic but had a love for fashion, and made belts and other items for female friends in his classes. He graduated in 1969.
Ferré’s accessories caught the eye of Rosy Biffi, who operated boutiques in Milan with her sister, Adele. He was encouraged by Biffi to create clothing, and soon began creating jewelry and accessories for Christiane Bailly and Walter Albini. The latter is an unsung hero of 20th-century fashion, while Bailly was part of a small group of prominent young stylistes who helped build a sterling reputation for French ready-to-wear fashion during the 1960s. Ferré’s work was photographed by Italian Vogue, and he secured commissions from the likes of Karl Lagerfeld and Elio Fiorucci.
Ferré appreciated other cultures and drew inspiration from his travels abroad. His most influential trip — a years-long stint in India — saw him bringing bright colors and patterns to his evening dresses and day dresses. While there he created a collection for the Genoa-based San Giorgio Impermeabili. Ferrè designed for brands such as Les Grenouilles and Baila, and met with Italian businessman and clothing manufacturer Franco Mattioli, who would become an important collaborator.
In 1978, Ferré and Mattioli became equal business partners in establishing Ferré’s own label, for which he designed women’s ready-to-wear and menswear collections in Milan. In 1983, he was named the first professor of fashion at the Domus Academy.
While teaching, Ferré won the Occhio d’Oro — Italy’s award for best fashion designer — six times. In 1986, he introduced his first women’s fragrance, his first couture and fur collections, and a new line called Studio 00l. A few years later, Bernard Arnault, owner of Christian Dior, appointed him artistic director.
It was unexpected for an Italian to be given the job at Dior — one of fashion’s most coveted roles — as that position traditionally went to French designers. There, as Marc Bohan’s successor, Ferré created luxurious and striking gowns that drew on his architecture studies in their sculptural forms while celebrating the long history of the legendary house. He revisited the nipped-waist silhouettes of Dior’s postwar years, and his work dazzled onlookers and exuded femininity. Ferré won the Dé d'Or prize in 1989 for his first collection at the label.
In the early 1990s, Ferré designed the Lady Dior handbag (prior to its 1995 debut, it was called the Chouchou). The boxy top-handled accessory soared to immense popularity after French first lady Bernadette Chirac gave a version in black leather to Diana, Princess of Wales. Each bag, which was eventually named for the Princess, is made from 130 pieces of leather and worked on by seven Dior craftsmen who spend at least eight hours perfecting it.
On 1stDibs, find a collection of vintage Gianfranco Ferré clothing, accessories and handbags and purses.
Gianfranco Ferre Jeweled Gilded Brooch with Acrylic Lucite Cabochons
By Gianfranco Ferré
Located in Atlanta, GA
This stunning Gianfranco Ferre couture brooch features a dimensional, gilt-metal geometric frame paved with crystal rhinestones and topped with two important, champagne-colored acryl...
Gilt Metal
Gianfranco Ferre Crystal Jeweled Clip Earrings
By Gianfranco Ferré
Located in Atlanta, GA
Crafted by iconic Italian designer Gianfranco Ferré, these rare couture clip-on earrings command attention with their bold, sculptural silhouette. Resembling elegant doorknockers cas...
Base Metal
Gianfranco Ferre Couture Giant Acrylic and Gilded Metal Vine Brooch
By Gianfranco Ferré
Located in Atlanta, GA
Step into the world of high fashion with this spectacular Gianfranco Ferré couture brooch, a true masterpiece from the 1960s, crafted in Italy. This rare and striking piece showcases...
Gilt Metal
Gianfranco Ferré "Shells" Gold metal Clip Earrings
By Gianfranco Ferré
Located in SAINT-OUEN-SUR-SEINE, FR
Gianfranco Ferré - (Made in Italy) Gold metal clip earrings featuring shells paved with strass. Additional information: Dimensions: 6 W x 7.5 H cm Condition: Very good condition ...
Gilt Metal
GIANFRANCO FERRE Vintage Massive Caravaca Cross Pendant Necklace
By Gianfranco Ferré
Located in Nice, FR
GIANFRANCO FERRE vintage bronze tone chunky chain necklace featuring a massive Caravaca cross pendant embellished with angels and multicolored glass cabochons. Hook clasp closure. ...
GIANFRANCO FERRE Vintage Massive Gold Tone Clip-On Earrings
By Gianfranco Ferré
Located in Nice, FR
GIANFRANCO FERRE vintage massive gold tone clip-on earrings featuring a 3 dimensional bunch of grapes and lemon, embellished with a red resin cabochon at the center. Embossed FERRE ...
Gilt Metal
Gianfranco Ferre Vintage Gold Toned Jewelled Dangling Earrings
By Gianfranco Ferré
Located in Nice, FR
GIANFRANCEO FERRE vintage gold toned dangling earrings (clip-on) embellished with a faceted fuschia resin cabochon, a massive marbled pink resin drop and clear crystals. Embossed FE...
Gilt Metal
Gianfranco FERRE Brooch Black Shell Crystal New, Never worn Pin 1980s
By Gianfranco Ferré
Located in Wallkill, NY
Large Black Gold Tone 24K Plated with massive Crystals set. Measuring 3.33 in / 84.73 mm wide X 1.84 in / 46.94mm top to bottom. This is out of a massive collection of New Old stock ...
Crystal, Gilt Metal
Dior necklace 'Lilies of the Valley' 1990s
By Gianfranco Ferré
Located in SAINT-OUEN-SUR-SEINE, FR
DIOR - (Made in France) Long golden metal necklace with tiny lily-of-the-valley bells. Jewelry from the 1990s under the artistic direction of Gianfranco Ferré. Condition: Very good ...
Gilt Metal
GIANFRANCO FERRE Vintage Massive Seashell Dangle Earrings
By Gianfranco Ferré
Located in Nice, FR
GIANFRANCO FERRE vintage massive dangle earrings (clip-on) featuring a black resin seashell embellished with clear crystals and a faux pearl drop. Gold tone metal hardware. Embossed...
Very large faceted faux crystal drop earrings, Gianfranco Ferre, Italy, 1990s.
By Gianfranco Ferré
Located in Greyabbey, County Down
These glamorous and striking earrings are made with faceted clear resin drops, that catch and reflect the light, topped in gilt metal, set with clear pastes. If made from crystal or glass , they would be far too heavy to wear! Very typical of the show and glamour Gianfranco Ferre 1990s...
Gilt Metal
Gianfranco Ferre Vintage Gold Metal Black Crystals Statement Bracelet
By Gianfranco Ferré
Located in Rome, Rome
This elegant gold metal link bracelet by Gianfranco Ferré, crafted in the 80s, is a true vintage treasure that exudes timeless style. The polished gold links flow seamlessly, creatin...
Vintage GIANFRANCO FERRE ITALY gold gripoix dragon runway clip on earrings
By Gianfranco Ferré
Located in Palos Hills, IL
DETAILS • signed FERRE MADE IN ITALY • gold tone with blue gripoix cabochons • vintage designer runway clip on earrings MEASUREMENTS • 1.63" in diameter CONDITION • excellen...
Gianfranco Ferré Rigid Leather Bracelet - '80s
By Gianfranco Ferré
Located in Milano, Lombardia
This Gianfranco Ferré cuff styled bracelet is crafted from textured black leather and featuring a golden metal dome for a stylish accent. Signature Ferré lo...
Gianfranco Ferré Cuff Bracelet in Golden Metal
By Gianfranco Ferré
Located in SAINT-OUEN-SUR-SEINE, FR
Gianfranco Ferré - (Made in Italy) Bracelet in golden metal with an impressive blue rhinestone on top. Additional information: Condition: Very good condition Dimensions: Length: 17 ...
Gianfranco Ferre Gilt Metal and Cabochons Baroque Clip Earrings
By Gianfranco Ferré
Located in Atlanta, GA
These stunning couture clip-on earrings were designed by Gianfranco Ferre and made in Italy. The statement design features a gilt metal baroque shape, a semi-mat finish aspect with l...
Gilt Metal
GIANFRANCO FERRE Abalone Crystal Earrings never worn 1980s
By Gianfranco Ferré
Located in Wallkill, NY
Starfish Motif on these GIANFRANCO FERRE Earrings. made in Italy. Gold Gilt wraps around the abalone shell with a starfish encrusted with crystals, Meas...
Gilt Metal
Gianfranco Ferre Tusk Brooch
By Gianfranco Ferré
Located in Beverly Hills, CA
1990s Gianfranco Ferre Tusk Brooch / pin
Philippe Ferrandis Chandelier Earrings Baroque Pearl New Old stock 1990s
By Philippe Ferrandis
Located in Wallkill, NY
Massive Philippe Ferrandis Chandelier Baroque Pearl Earrings. Measuring 4.8 inches / 122.1 mm long---1.4 inches / 36.5 mm wide.. Coral Reef/ Seashell Motif. Philippe Ferrandis is a...
Gilt Metal
David Webb 18K Yellow Gold Scrolled Textured Clip Earrings
By David Webb
Located in New York, NY
Step into the world of vintage elegance with the David Webb 18K Yellow Gold Hammered Scroll Earrings, a pair of timeless accessories that showcase the brand's signature craftsmanship...
18k Gold, Yellow Gold
$212Sale Price|20% Off
Dm 1.65 in
Gold Retro Hippie Clip On Earrings, Turquoise Yellow and Hot Pink Enamel
Located in Milford, DE
Big and bold, a pair of chunky hippie clip on earrings. The perfect retro accessory with a playful touch! Turquoise, hot pink, violent, and yellow enamel. Circa 1970s. Gold-plated.
Gold Plate
$10,800Sale Price|20% Off
W 0.79 in D 0.4 in L 2.37 in
Set in 18K Gold, Colombian Emerald, Mother of Pearl & Diamond Chandelier Earring
By JEWEL HUB
Located in Hong Kong, HK
A very gorgeous and beautiful, one of a kind, Emeralds & Mother of Pearls Chandelier Earrings set in 18K White Gold & natural Diamonds. The weight of the Emeralds is 8.06 carats. The...
Diamond, Emerald, Pearl, 18k Gold
$834
H 0.4 in W 1.72 in L 1.72 in
Federico Jimenez Southwestern Sterling Silver Turquoise Heart Clip On Earrings
Located in New York, NY
These striking vintage Southwestern clip-on earrings are a bold celebration of artisan craftsmanship and regional heritage. Signed “JF,” each earring showcases a heart-shaped mosaic ...
Turquoise, Sterling Silver
Ciner Swarovski Crystal Earrings New, Never Worn 1980s
By Ciner
Located in Wallkill, NY
These are Ciner Earrings made with Colored cabochons Swarovski Crystals measuring 33.58 mm / 1.32 top to bottom x 31.35 mm / 1.23 wide. Shown in the last photo is the Matching neckla...
Crystal, Gilt Metal
South Sea Pearl 15mm Diamond Clip-On Earrings Design by Ella Gafter
By Ella Gafter
Located in New York, NY
The South Sea pearl and diamond earrings feature two 15mm diameter pearls originating from the waters of Northwestern Australia. The design is complete with 2 diamonds (0.16 carats)....
White Diamond, South Sea Pearl, Diamond, Pearl, 18k Gold, White Gold
South Sea Pearl and Diamond White Gold Clip Earrings Design by Ella Gafter
By Ella Gafter
Located in New York, NY
The two 14.5mm diameter South Sea pearls originate from the waters of Northwestern Australia. The untreated pearls are being delivered to the customer with their natural color and lo...
White Diamond, South Sea Pearl, Diamond, Pearl, 18k Gold, White Gold
Blue Topaz Pendant Necklace Diamond Setting 5.84 Carats Sterling Silver
Located in Bonita Springs, FL
"It comes with the Gemological Appraisal by GIA GG/AJP All Gemstones are Natural Blue Topaz = 5.60 Carats 48 Diamonds = 0.24 Carats Metal: Rhodium Plated Sterling Silver Pendant Dime...
Diamond, White Diamond, Topaz, Blue Topaz, Rhodium, Silver, Silver Plate...
$3,650
W 1 in D 0.38 in L 2.63 in
Vintage 1984 Tiffany & Co. Tulip Motif Brooch in Polished 18 Karat Yellow Gold
By Tiffany & Co.
Located in Scottsdale, AZ
This vintage Tiffany & Co. tulip brooch is a true work of art. The brooch is crafted from 18 karat gold with a high polish finish on the anterior side and a sandblasted finish on the...
Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
CHANEL Vintage Gold CC Logo Horse Charm Brooch
By Chanel
Located in Bellevue, WA
DETAILS: Hallmark: CHANEL Made in France Gold Plated The brooch is in good condition showing minimal wear Comes with box IMPORTANT INFORMATION: This item is a pre-owned vintage piec...
Gold
Van Cleef & Arpels Perlée Pearls 18K Rose Gold Ring Small Model Size 54
By Van Cleef & Arpels
Located in Banbury, GB
SKU 77701405 Comes With Box Only Date 2019 RRP £750 Incl. Taxes / €880 Incl. Taxes / $820 Excl. Taxes Model VCARN33054 Serial Number JA****** Metal 18k Rose Gold Weight Approximately...
18k Gold, Rose Gold, Gold
Gianfranco Ferré necklace Haute Couture
By Gianfranco Ferré
Located in SAINT-OUEN-SUR-SEINE, FR
GIANFRANCO FERRÉ - (Made in France) Coppery metal chain necklace with rhinestones and hard stones. A Haute Couture Collection. The dress is not included. Condition: Very good condit...
Gianfranco Ferre 1980s Large Nautilus Sea Shell Brooch
By Gianfranco Ferré
Located in New York, NY
This Gianfranco Ferré 1980s nautilus brooch is a stunning example of the Italian designer’s talent for combining natural inspiration with high fashion. Its distinctive features inclu...
Gold Plate
Gianfranco Ferré brooch Haute Couture
By Gianfranco Ferré
Located in SAINT-OUEN-SUR-SEINE, FR
GIANFRANCO FERRÉ - (Made in France) Coppery metal brooch with rhinestones and hard stones. A Haute Couture Collection. The dress seen on the pictures is not included. Condition: Ver...
Dior bee earrings
By Gianfranco Ferré
Located in SAINT-OUEN-SUR-SEINE, FR
DIOR - (Made in France) Golden metal clip-on earrings with rhinestones representing bees. Condition: Very good condition Dimensions: 3.5 cm x 4 cm SKU:BO47
Gilt Metal
GIANFRANCO FERRE Vintage Massive Green Crystal Dangle Earrings
By Gianfranco Ferré
Located in Nice, FR
GIANFRANCO FERRE vintage massive gold tone dangle earrings (clip-on) embellished with a large oval green crystal. Embossed FERRE Made in Italy. Indicative measurements : height app...
Gilt Metal
Christian Dior brooch Summer 1993
By Gianfranco Ferré
Located in SAINT-OUEN-SUR-SEINE, FR
DIOR - Impressive golden metal brooch shaped like flowers and leaves and ornamented with rhinestones and costume pearls. 1993 Spring-Summer Collection, under the artistic direction o...
Gianfranco Ferre Vintage Gold Metal Oval Cabochon Clip On Earrings
By Gianfranco Ferré
Located in Rome, Rome
Step into the glamour of the 80s with these gorgeous vintage Gianfranco Ferré oval earrings. A true statement piece, these earrings feature a striking gold metal structure that elega...
Gianfranco Ferre Vintage Gold Metal Black Crystals Statement Bracelet
By Gianfranco Ferré
Located in Rome, Rome
Step back in time with this stunning vintage '80s bangle bracelet, signed by the iconic Gianfranco Ferre. The cylindrical shape of the bracelet is elegantly enhanced by the oblique c...
Gianfranco Ferré Brooch with Rhinestones - '90s
By Gianfranco Ferré
Located in Milano, Lombardia
Gianfranco Ferré golden brooch embellished with rhinestones. Circumference:27;Length:9;Width:9
Gianfranco Ferré Earrings Clip On with Multicolored Rhinestones 90s
By Gianfranco Ferré
Located in 'S-HERTOGENBOSCH, NL
Very rare 90s Gianfranco Ferré gold-plaed clip on earrings with beautiful colours. A real statement piece that blend modernity with classic elegance. Dazzling and elegant with a touc...
GianFranco Ferré Golden Brooch
By Gianfranco Ferré
Located in SAINT-OUEN-SUR-SEINE, FR
Ferre (Made in Italy) Gilted metal brooch set with rhinestones and made of chains. Additional information: Dimensions: Width: 8 cm (3.15 in) - Length with chains: 15 cm (5.9 in) Con...
Gilt Metal
Gianfranco Ferre Gilt Metal and Wood Door Knocker Dangle Clip Earrings
By Gianfranco Ferré
Located in Atlanta, GA
Italian designer Gianfranco Ferre created these spectacular couture clip-on earrings in the 1990s. The oversized shoulder duster design boasts a do...
Gilt Metal