No one understands sex appeal quite like American designer Tom Ford.
An avowed perfectionist from an early age, Ford was rearranging furniture at the age of six and offering his mother advice on her hair and shoes. The designer, author, film director and chairman of the Council of Fashion Designers of America (CFDA) is one of the most successful people working in fashion today.
Born in Austin, Texas, Ford grew up in the suburbs of Houston and Santa Fe, New Mexico. He briefly attended New York University, where he studied art history before dropping out to pursue acting. He became a regular at Studio 54, with its decadent nightlife later informing his high-octane fashion. He studied architecture at Parsons School of Design before shifting his focus to fashion and spending time at the Parsons Paris campus, graduating in 1985. The rest of the decade he worked for designers Perry Ellis and Cathy Hardwick. In 1990, Gucci’s creative director Dawn Mello hired him as a womens-wear designer.
At the time, the Italian label was better known for leather goods than luxury fashion. It was also nearly bankrupt. After Mello left in 1994, following a Bahrain-based investment group becoming Gucci’s majority shareholder, Ford was named creative director. He soon infused the brand with a fresh sensuality and bold style. His fall 1995 show, in which Kate Moss walked down the runway in an unbuttoned satin shirt, velvet hip-huggers and tousled hair, heralded an exciting, glammed-up era for the once fusty brand. Vogue critic Sarah Mower called it “one of those hitting-in-the-solar-plexus moments.”
As Ford shot to fame, he continued to explore plunging necklines, such as in the black and white looks of the Fall 1996 collection, and sumptuous fabrics like leather and tweed, with the Fall 2000 ready-to-wear collection ranging from sultry silk evening dresses to plush belted coats. He also cranked up the seduction in the provocative ads for the fashion house, particularly with regard to campaigns for Yves Saint Laurent, which Gucci acquired in 1999 (Ford was also named creative director for YSL and designed the brand’s ready-to-wear collection). Gucci's Fall/Winter 1997 campaign featured Carolyn Murphy grasping Angela Lindvall in what looked like a video still; in another shot, a face pressed against a foot in a lipstick-red heel. Each promoted a vision of modern fashion where women were sexually confident, the materials were luxurious and the styles were fearless.
In 2004, Ford and Gucci president Domenico De Sole left the company after failing to agree on the renewal of their contracts. In 2006, with De Sole as chairman, Ford launched his wildly successful eponymous menswear label. The brand has expanded into womens wear, beauty, accessories — vintage Tom Ford handbags are universally adored by celebrities and collectors alike — as well as eyewear and fragrance, with the unisex Black Orchid introduced in 2006. Ford broke into film directing with the critically acclaimed A Single Man in 2009 and Nocturnal Animals in 2016, continuing to blur the boundaries between fashion and culture.
Find vintage Tom Ford day dresses, purses, shoes and other clothing and accessories now on 1stDibs.
Tom Ford for Gucci Lavender Silk Halter Dress S/S 2003
By Tom Ford, Gucci
Located in Water Mill, NY
A fabulous lavender stretch silk dress by Tom Ford for Gucci S/S 2003 collection. It has a plunging front neckline and racer back with multiple sea...
Tom Ford for Gucci New Silk Velvet Dress F/W 2001
By Gucci, Tom Ford
Located in Water Mill, NY
A gorgeous black silk velvet dress from Gucci as worn in a 2001 ad campaign. It has a square neckline with the center bust highlighted with sheer areas which contrast with the rich v...
Tom Ford for Gucci Silk Python Print Dress SS 2000
By Gucci, Tom Ford
Located in Water Mill, NY
A fabulous iconic python print silk jersey dress from Tom Ford for Gucci S/S 2000 collection in shades of grey. It has a leather cord closing with a Gucci inscribed silver metal cla...
NWT Tom Ford $7, 000 Runway Fall 2015 Size 42 / 8 White Open Back Fringe Dress
By Tom Ford
Located in San Diego, CA
SOLD OUT Brand new with tags TOM FORD Fall 2015 runway white fringe flapper style dress! Impeccably designed, this rare gem features fabulous white ...
Tom Ford For Gucci Dress with Cut outs
By Tom Ford, Gucci
Located in Water Mill, NY
A fabulous black fine stretch silk dress from Tom Ford for Gucci. It has 3/4 length sleeves, slits at the side hem and a fine strap crossing the upper chest and back. There is a ribb...
Tom Ford for Yves Saint Laurent Black Rayon Jersey Knit Vintage Sleeveless Gown
By Tom Ford for Yves Saint Laurent, Tom Ford
Located in San Diego, CA
Exquisite vintage early 2000s TOM FORD for YVES SAINT LAURENT Rive Gauche black rayon jersey evening gown ! Features ruched detail above the back rear. Sashes hang from each side. H...
Yves Saint Laurent x Tom Ford Spring 2002 Leopard Print Silk Kaftan Dress
By Tom Ford, Tom Ford for Yves Saint Laurent
Located in London, GB
Rarest Yves Saint Laurent x Tom Ford leopard print fringed silk kaftan dress from the Spring 2002 collection. Look 39 on the runway. Worn once and in immaculate vintage condition. Ma...
1990S TOM FORD GUCCI Metallic Bronze Poly/Lurex Stretch Strapless Cocktail Dress
By Tom Ford
Located in New York, NY
1990S TOM FORD GUCCI Metallic Bronze Poly/Lurex Stretch Strapless Cocktail Dress MORPHEW VINTAGE represents the finest pieces of fashions past. Sourced from across the globe, dating...
Tom Ford for Gucci Silver Leather Backless Dress
By Tom Ford, Gucci
Located in Water Mill, NY
A beautiful silver leather wrap dress by Tom Ford for Gucci . The bodice crosses in the front wrapping at the waist and closing with snaps. It ha...
Tom Ford New Dress with Cut outs
By Tom Ford
Located in Water Mill, NY
An incredible dress from Tom Ford in off white silk. It has a plunging neckline, long sleeves with zippers at the wrists and black mesh covered oval cut outs at the side hips, side ...
1990S TOM FORD GUCCI White Jersey Safety Pinned Cocktail Dress
By Tom Ford
Located in New York, NY
1990S TOM FORD GUCCI White Jersey Safety Pinned Cocktail Dress
GUCCI TOM FORD 1999 Vintage Runway pink floral cutout leather strap dress IT42 M
By Gucci, Tom Ford
Located in Hong Kong, NT
GUCCI TOM FORD 1999 Vintage Runway pink floral cutout leather strap dress IT42 M Reference: TGAS/D00469 Brand: Gucci Designer: Tom Ford Collection: Runway Material: Silk, Leather Col...
Tom Ford for Gucci SS 2004 Brown Silk Dress
By Tom Ford, Gucci
Located in Water Mill, NY
A gorgeous rich brown fine stretch silk dress from Tom Ford for Gucci. The dress portion is strapless then it is sheer to the stand up collar at the neck and to the elbows of the dramatic leg of...
Tom Ford for Gucci 2003 Collection Silk Corset Top Cocktail Dress 40
By Tom Ford
Located in Montgomery, TX
New Tom Ford for Gucci Silk Cocktail Dress F/W 2003 Collection Color - Chocolate Italian Size 40 This sexy dress features a corset top and cowl back with lots of strap and top-stitch...
Yves Saint Laurent By Tom Ford Wrap Dress
By Tom Ford, Yves Saint Laurent
Located in Geneva, CH
Effortlessly chic, this early 2000 Yves Saint Laurent by Tom Ford wrap dress will deliver glamour and sophistication for any occasion. Cut from comfortable vibrant fuchsia crepe-viscose, it has a plunging V-neckline and satin-silk waist sash ties to ensure the most flattering fit. Partially lined the dress is approximately a size S (US 4) but runs slightly big to size. Style it with stilettos and a small clutch. Remarks : - same dress in black colour is available for sale as well - circa 2000 Bulgari...
Tom Ford for Gucci 2003 Collection 3x Buckle Grommet Sleeve Burgundy Dress 40
By Gucci, Tom Ford
Located in Montgomery, TX
Tom Ford for Gucci Silk Dress 2003 Collection Italian Size 40 - US 4 100% Silk Color - Deep Burgundy Hidden Button Closure at Front Sleeves Finished with Triple Buckle and Gromm...
Tom Ford for Gucci 2004 Collection Black Leather Cocktail Dress It. 44 - US 8
By Gucci, Tom Ford
Located in Montgomery, TX
Tom Ford for Gucci Black Leather Cocktail Dress 2004 Collection Italian size 44 Color - Black. 100% Super Soft Leather, Fully Lined, Side Zip Closure. Measurements: Length - 40 inch...
TOM FROD white viscose OPEN BACK CREPE COCKTAIL Dress 38 XS
By Tom Ford
Located in Zürich, CH
This 100% authentic Tom Ford cocktail dress in white crêpe combines elegance with a touch of allure. Crafted from a blend of viscose (65%), acetate (32%), and elastane (3%), it featu...
THE ROW beige viscose COWL NECK TENT Dress M
By Tom Ford
Located in Zürich, CH
The Row tent dress in light beige viscose (95%) and elastane (5%). With cowl neck and two slit pockets on the sides. Unlined. Has been worn and is in excellent condition. Tag Size ...
TOM FROD black leather SMOCKED Long Sleeve Sheath Dress 38 XS
By Tom Ford
Located in Zürich, CH
100% authentic Tom Ford smocked long sleeve mid-calf dress in black lamb leather (100%). Opens with an anthracite metallic zipper on the back. Lined in silk (94%) and elastane (6%). ...
Tom Ford Black Knitted Dress - Size S
By Tom Ford
Located in Krakow, PL
Tom Ford Black Knitted Dress Sz. S – Very Good Condition Condition: Very good; minimal signs of wear under the arms; tag on lining requires repair; additional cleaning recommended F...
TOM FROD black cotton 2011 Lace & Mesh Dress 42 M
By Tom Ford
Located in Zürich, CH
100% authenticTom Ford embroidered lace dress in black cotton (100%). Feattures a round lace-trimmed neck, long tulle sleeves in silk (100%) with embroidered cuffs. Opens with a silv...
Size: will fit large to XL
Moroccan Kaftan in Turquoise and Gold Floral Brocade Metallic Lame
By Yves Saint Laurent
Located in Moreno Valley, CA
Elegant Moroccan caftan in turquoise and gold floral lame metallic and embroidered trim, circa 1970s. This long maxi dress kaftan is embroidered and embellished entirely by hand. It’s crafted in Morocco and tailored for a relaxed fit. One of a kind evening Moroccan Middle Eastern gown. The kaftan features a traditional neckline, embellished sleeves. It comes in 2 pieces, an under garment...
Mignon Strapless Bustier Dress with Large Flower
By Mignon
Located in Water Mill, NY
A fabulous bustier dress from Mignon in grey and pink silk. It has a boned, ruched front crossing sweetheart cut strapless neckline piped on the edge in 2 shades of light grey. A f...
1980s Diane Freis Silk Blue + Pink Flowers and Plaid Stripes Vintage 80s Dress
By Diane Freis
Located in San Diego, CA
Pretty vintage 80s DIANE FREIS light blue and pink flowers and plaid silk dress ! As a vintage collector, I have always appreciated Diane Freis, as I always know it is a Freis piece ...
Versace SS 2005 Madonna Ad Campaign Backless Silk Dress
By Versace
Located in Water Mill, NY
A fabulous light yellow stretch silk dress as featured in Versace's notable 2005 ad campaign. It has a shirt collar, fold up elbow length sleeves with functional tabs, 2 chest flap p...
Gai Mattiolo 1990s Sexy Semi Sheer Leopard Brown Metallic Vintage 90s Dress
By Gai Mattiolo
Located in San Diego, CA
Sexy late 90s GAI MATTIOLO vintage semi sheer leopard print brown semi sheer sleeveless dress! Features intricate embroidery on the bodice, which covers the breasts. Gold, silver and...
Size: M
1950s Cage Back Dress
Located in Water Mill, NY
A great black dress with a bateau neckline, short sleeves and small vertical straps draping in the bodice back. It has a straight skirt with a back vent and an attached belt. The dre...
Size: XS, S, M
Pierre Cardin 1960s Scarf Hem Dress
By Pierre Cardin
Located in Water Mill, NY
An incredible forest green silk maxi dress with red, orange, rust, blue and celery green dots by Pierre Cardin. The dress is sleeveless with a crew neck and attached by a point at mi...
Size: S, M
Pierre Balmain Silk Safety Pin Dress
By Pierre Balmain, Balmain
Located in Water Mill, NY
A beautiful pale yellow silk dress from Pierre Balmain. It is semi fitted skimming the body with a crew neckline and long sleeves adorned along the outside with dozens of silver safety...
Oscar de la Renta Summer Late Day Evening Party Dress
By Oscar De La Renta
Located in Los Angeles, CA
Fabulous Oscar de la Renta crisp white organza party pouf from the designer's runway collection. The one being offered is identical to that in the runway photo below. The red and wh...
Size: Approx. Small / Medium
John Galliano floral print silk chiffon drop-waist floor-length dress, fw 2008
By John Galliano
Located in London, GB
▪ John Galliano silk chiffon dress ▪ A sample made for Vogue ▪ Ivory and pink floral print with mauve base ▪ Cowl neckline ▪ Rolled shoulde...
Gianni Versace Couture Silk Dress with Leather Hip Band A/W 2001
By Gianni Versace Couture, Gianni Versace
Located in Water Mill, NY
A beautiful silk dress from Gianni Versace in an abstract bright pink, taupe, black and white print. It is sleeveless with a V neckline, a top stitched leather inset around the hips...
New Vera Wang Lavender Label Silk Peter Pan Dress Sz 6
By Vera Wang
Located in Conroe, TX
Vera Wang Lavender Label Brand New with Tags * Size: 6 * Ivory Silk Dress with Sheer Black Underlay * Zigzag Stitching & Pleated Details * Sleeveless * Rounded Peter Pan collar * Si...
Tom Ford Black Viscose Slim-Fit Dress Sz.XS
By Tom Ford
Located in Krakow, PL
Elevate your wardrobe with this sophisticated Tom Ford black viscose dress! This dress features a sleek, slim-fit silhouette and chic silver-tone zip detailing. Perfect for making a ...
Tom Ford Black Corset Mini Night Out Dress Sz.40
By Tom Ford
Located in Krakow, PL
Sz.40 Very good condition. Please know your size in Tom Ford.
Tom Ford, off shoulder jumper dress in fuchsia
By Tom Ford
Located in AMSTERDAM, NL
Tom Ford, off shoulder jumper dress in fuchsia. The item is in excellent condition. CONDITION: very good condition SIZE: M MEASUREMENTS: length 111 cm, width 62 cm, waist 46 cm, s...
GUCCI Tom Ford 2002 Vintage dark purple satin laced neckline mini dress IT38 XS
By Tom Ford, Gucci
Located in Hong Kong, NT
GUCCI Tom Ford 2002 Vintage dark purple satin laced neckline mini dress IT38 XS Reference: ANWU/A00677 Brand: Gucci Designer: Tom Ford Collection: SS 2002 Material: Rayon Color: Purp...
GUCCI TOM FORD 2000 Runway Vintage black white one shoulder dress IT38 XS
By Gucci, Tom Ford
Located in Hong Kong, NT
GUCCI TOM FORD 2000 Runway Vintage black white one shoulder dress IT38 XS Reference: ANWU/A00676 Brand: Gucci Designer: Tom Ford Collection: S...
GUCCI TOM FORD 2003 black Japanese Cherry Blossom bodycon dress XS
By Gucci, Tom Ford
Located in Hong Kong, NT
GUCCI TOM FORD 2003 black Japanese Cherry Blossom bodycon dress XS Reference: ANWU/A00672 Brand: Gucci Designer: Tom Ford Collection: Spring Summer 2003 - Runway Material: Feels like...
Size: XS
Tom Ford Ivory Wool Zipper Dress
By Tom Ford
Located in Krakow, PL
Sz.XS Very good condition.
GUCCI TOM FORD Vintage Runway print silk side cutout leather strap dress IT42 M
By Tom Ford, Gucci
Located in Hong Kong, NT
GUCCI TOM FORD Vintage Runway red pink floral print silk side cutout leather strap dress IT42 M Reference: TGAS/D00469 Brand: Gucci Designer: Tom Ford Collection: Runway Material: Si...
GUCCI TOM FORD Vintage black 100% silk minimal deep V wrap midi dress IT40 S
By Tom Ford, Gucci
Located in Hong Kong, NT
GUCCI TOM FORD Vintage black 100% silk minimal deep V wrap midi dress IT40 S Reference: TGAS/C02017 Brand: Gucci Designer: Tom Ford Material: Silk Color: Black Pattern: Solid Closure...
GUCCI Tom Ford 2002 Vintage dark purple satin laced neckline mini dress IT38 XS
By Tom Ford, Gucci
Located in Hong Kong, NT
GUCCI Tom Ford 2002 Vintage dark purple satin laced neckline mini dress IT38 XS Reference: ANWU/A00677 Brand: Gucci Designer: Tom Ford Collection: ...
Gucci by Tom Ford runway fall 2001 100% silk black bustier post-it dress
By Tom Ford for Gucci, Tom Ford
Located in Antwerpen, Vlaams Gewest
Gucci by Tom Ford fall 2001 black post-it bustier dress Iconic and highly collectible. Inside attached bustier to hold the dress equipped with a side zipp...
Size: S/Small (US4) but runs a bit big
Yves Saint Laurent By Tom Ford Wrap Dress
By Tom Ford, Yves Saint Laurent
Located in Geneva, CH
Effortlessly chic, this early 2000 Yves Saint Laurent by Tom Ford wrap dress will deliver glamour and sophistication for any occasion. Cut from comfortable black crepe-jersey, it has a plunging V-neckline and satin-silk waist sash ties to ensure the most flattering fit. Partially lined the dress is labeled a size S (US 4) but runs slightly big to size. Style it with stilettos and a small clutch. Remarks : - same dress in a vibrant fuchsia colour is available for sale as well - circa 2000 Bulgari silk...