McCartney, Stella

(1972- )

   Born in England, McCartney graduated from the fashion program at Central Saint Martins College of Art and Design in London in 1995. Amid much controversy, due to her famous father, the former Beatle Sir Paul McCartney, she was hired as chief designer at the house of Chloe directly out of school. Her collections at then-ailing Chloe were well received and boosted sales. However, McCartney left in 2001 to design under her own label as part of the Gucci Group. She was best known for combining tomboy tailoring with frilly rock-star glamour. Like her mother, Linda, she was a staunch animal-rights activist. In 2005, she unveiled a limited-edition capsule collection in partnership with H&M that sold out within hours and, elsewhere, a line of performance sportswear for Adidas. In 2006, an organic skin care line was launched.