Synopses & Reviews
With a gorgeous new cover, this extensively illustrated book is a celebration of the VandA's magnificent collection of 20th-century fashion. The latest title in the highly successful
Fashion in Detail series, this book offers a detailed look at some of the most stunning garments in the collection. In meticulous detail, the book features line drawings of each garment's structure and specially commissioned close-up photographs of each item's most impressive aspects: fastenings, necklines, cuffs, hemlines, fringes, and more. Arranged thematically, the authors provide information about everything from seams, buttons and collars, to beads, tucks, and pleats. The result is a visual banquet of textures, patterns, and craftsmanship and an eye-opening testament to the variety and creativity of modern dress. An essential visual reference for designers, students, and fashionistas everywhere.
Synopsis
Thea Porter (1927andndash;2000) came to epitomize bohemian chic in the 1960s and andrsquo;70s, using an eclectic mix of luxurious fabrics for her signature fl owing dresses that became favorites of stylish women everywhere. Faye Dunaway, Joan Collins, Barbra Streisand, and Elizabeth Taylor were fans; Vogueandrsquo;s Diana Vreeland championed her clothes; and today vintage Thea Porter is worn by Kate Moss, Nicole Richie, and other fashionistas. This first and#160;book devoted to the UK-based fashion designer features new photography of her fabulous clothes and jewelry as well as press clippings, sketches, and excerpts from an unpublished memoir she wrote about her aesthetics, philosophies, and work.
About the Author
Valerie D. Mendes is a fashion and textiles historian who became Chief Curator of the former Textiles and Dress Department at the VandA.
Claire Wilcox is a leading expert in contemporary fashion who has curated several VandA exhibitions.