Good design is everywhere these days. Great design—the objects, places and ideas that fuse functionality and aesthetics and then push the boundaries a step further to capture the imagination—is more elusive. Take a look at the standouts.

FASHION

Cole Haan

By Betsey KrollFriday, Apr. 13, 2007
dek

Gordon Thompson

Under creative director Gordon Thompson's guidance, innovation has become a key ingredient of Cole Haan's success. Thompson's suggestion in 2000 to incorporate Nike Air technology into Cole Haan loafers was radical—and very popular. So much so that last fall the company launched the 4-in. State of the Art high heel with Air cushioning. Now you can really kick up your heels.

Next Yves Béhar