This girl's got a success story for the books: In less than three years, socialite turned designer Tory Burch (and former girlfriend of Lance Armstrong) is the force behind one of the most successful contemporary brands of the new century. After stints working at Harper.s Bazaar, Ralph Lauren, and Vera Wang, Burch launched her eponymous label in 2004. Perfecting globe-trotting staples including printed caftans, A-line sundresses, and plenty of .60s-inspired accessories, the Pennsylvania native added a fresh new chapter to the preppy handbook: In 2005 Fashion Group International awarded the Rising Star Award to Burch for Best New Retail Concept, and in 2007 Burch was awarded the ACE Award for Accessory Brand Launch of the year. Today brightly patterned pieces.many of which bear her distinctive T logo -- are a favorite of A-listers including Oprah Winfrey, Debra Messing, and Reese Witherspoon.
