Where do designers' ideas come from? How are those wisps of inspiration transformed into a clothing collection? Who informs the public of fashion trends? The multibillion-dollar fashion industry is chronicled endlessly in magazines and newspapers from Vogue to People to the New York Times; millions of readers and observers -- and shoppers -- follow the styles from season to season. Stylemakers: Inside Fashion is a fascinating behind-the-scenes glimpse into the world of contemporary fashion design.

The authors have interviewed and photographed more than ninety stylemakers to illuminate public figures as well as those who work in the shadow of glitter and celebrity. "The Prophets" include trend and color forecasters, such as Li Edelkoort; art directors, illustrators, and creative directors; muses who inspire designers, such as Amanda Harlech for Karl Lagerfeld; and extremists, fashion's fabulous risk-takers. "The Gurus" are writers and critics (Hal Rubenstein of InStyle magazine, William Norwich of the New York Times), stylists (Polly Allen Mellen, L'Wren Scott), publicists, photographers, and fashion show producers. "The Players" are the business moguls, such as Bernard Arnault of LVMH Moët Hennessy Louis Vuitton; ringleaders, such as Fern Mallis of the Council of Fashion Designers of America; retailers and promoters; Internet marketers; and deal-makers. Together these individuals represent all facets-public and private-of the fashion world.