Susannah Constantine: The Renowned Fashion Icon

A Fashion Powerhouse

Susannah Constantine is a household name in the world of fashion, celebrated for her expertise as a TV fashion journalist, writer, style advisor, television presenter, and clothes designer. She is famously known for her hit TV show "What Not to Wear" alongside Trinny Woodall, which ran from 2001 to 2005 and earned her a British Book Award.

Early Life and Education

Born on June 3, 1962, in Hammersmith, London, Constantine was raised in a small village in Leicestershire. Her father, Joseph Constantine, was an Old Etonian who served as an officer in the Coldstream Guards, hailing from a Yorkshire landed gentry family with roots tracing back to the 18th century. Constantine was privately educated, a privilege that laid the foundation for her future successes.

Rise to Fame

Constantine's foray into fashion began in America, where she worked for Giorgio Armani, followed by a stint with John Galliano in London. In 1994, she met Trinny Woodall, with whom she co-wrote a weekly fashion column, "Ready to Wear." This partnership would go on to spawn numerous successful ventures, including the failed dotcom fashion advice business, Ready2shop.com, and their first fashion advice book, "Ready 2 Dress," in 2000.

Breakthrough with "What Not to Wear"

The duo's breakthrough came when they were commissioned to host the BBC Two style series, "What Not to Wear," which ran from 2001 to 2005. The show's massive success led to Constantine making regular appearances as a style advisor on "The Oprah Winfrey Show." Her popularity soared, and she went on to co-host "Trinny & Susannah Undress..." on ITV in 2006 and "Undress the Nation" in 2007.

Literary Successes

Constantine and Woodall have co-written several fashion advice books, including "What Not to Wear," which won a British Book Award and sold 670,000 copies. Their books have become bestsellers in the United Kingdom and the United States, with an estimated 2.5 million copies sold. One of their notable works is "The Body Shape Bible," which provides expert advice on dressing for different body types.

Designing for the Masses

In 2007, Constantine and Woodall launched their own clothing range for Littlewoods, making high-end fashion accessible to a wider audience. This venture marked a significant milestone in their careers, solidifying their status as fashion authorities.

Awards and Recognition

• British Book Award for "What Not to Wear"
• Regular appearances on "The Oprah Winfrey Show"
• Co-host of "Trinny & Susannah Undress..." on ITV
• Co-host of "Undress the Nation" in 2007

Legacy and Impact

Susannah Constantine's influence on modern fashion is undeniable. Her work has inspired countless individuals to rethink their approach to style, and her television shows and books have become a staple in many fashion enthusiasts' lives. With a career spanning multiple decades, Constantine has cemented her position as a leading authority in the world of fashion.

Personal Life and Philanthropy

Constantine has been involved in various charitable initiatives, using her platform to support causes close to her heart. Her personal life, including her relationships and milestones, has been subject to public scrutiny, but she remains a beloved figure in the fashion industry.