Her penchant for beauty and fashion has its roots in her home and childhood, so to speak. Monique Lhuillier’s father, Michel, is a renowned jeweller and businessman while her mother, Amparito, is a former model and society figure. Her illustrious upbringing and international education influenced her perspective and honed her style, leading her to the Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising. Lhuillier had already been living and working on her eponymous brand in Los Angeles when she was asked to design the wedding dress of pop star Britney Spears in 2004.

Soon, her dresses were all over the red carpet of the Golden Globes, Emmy Awards and The Oscars. Hollywood stars like Angelina Jolie and Taylor Swift aren’t the only celebrities that she counts among her clientele, as even Michelle Obama has worn her creations during her time in the White House. Speaking of presidents, she received the Presidential Award for Merit in 2006 in recognition of her talent and international acclaim.

Lhuillier has ready-to-wear, couture, bridal wear and lifestyle brands with stores in Los Angeles, New York City, and Orange County. In 2003, she was also invited to become a member of the Council of Fashion Designers of America. This year, Lhuillier launched a fine jewellery collection, as well as released a coffee table book titled Monique Lhuillier: Dreaming of Fashion and Glamour to mark her 25th anniversary in the industry.