Ellis is a fashion designer who is best known for his work under the name Perry Ellis. He was born in Portsmouth, Virginia in 1940 and began his career as a sportswear designer in the 1970s. He quickly gained recognition for his innovative designs and became one of the most influential American fashion designers of the 20th century. His designs were known for their modern, minimalist aesthetic and he was credited with introducing preppy style to the mainstream. He passed away in 1986, but his legacy lives on through his iconic designs.