Born in Porterville, California, in 1962, Rick Owens initially studied fine arts at Otis College of Art and Design in Los Angeles before venturing into fashion. In 1994, he launched his eponymous label, debuting with a collection of luxury leather jackets that epitomized his dark, edgy aesthetic. The following years saw Owens rapidly gaining recognition for his avant-garde designs, which challenged traditional notions of beauty and glamour. By the early 2000s, Owens had expanded his offerings to include ready-to-wear collections, showcasing his signature asymmetrical cuts, minimalist silhouettes, and use of unconventional materials. His runway shows became renowned for their theatricality and artistic vision, further solidifying his status as a visionary in the fashion world.