60’s psychedelia all bubbly in pastels and acid tones, elegant gentlemens' scarves and pocket silks, finely woven wool shawls with intricate patterns in muted autumnal shades, luxurious eastern silks and common calicos, cowboy cotton neckerchiefs in navy or red………From the dizzying fashion heights of Pucci palazzo pants down to the humble pair of pyjamas………Paisley rules ok. It is the most popular, versatile and enduring of patterns and has sat comfortably and securely in all the above settings across time and continents. The ‘Boteh’ or ‘Buta’ motif originated in India and Persia possibly as far back as the 3rd century. It is believed to be a stylized form of leaf or sprouting bud. As the shape was adopted by different cultures...
The John Paul Gaultier couture exhibition at the Barbican, London is certainly worth taking the day off for. It really is a must see! Fabulously curated, it showcases the truly conceptual nature of Gaultier’s designs highlighting the reference points of androgyny, the body, film and the virgin. The marinière, the striped Breton shirt from his childhood which he continually subverts. The influence of Paris, displayed on a moving catwalk carousel and the love of London and its sub-cultures of punk and rock. And ofcourse the corset as immortalized by Madonna. These themes and much more are all explored. The detailing of his creations are breathtaking and you can get really close to admire the finesse. Engaging touches include the soundtrack of...
While driving through Cote D'Azur last month, Kevin and I chanced upon a bumper deal that resulted in a night's stay at the Hotel Negresco on the Nice sea front. This 5 star hotel is famed for it's eclectic art collection which permeates every corner of the grand art deco building. Wondering through the loosely themed floors (Oriental, African, Fashion, Imperial France, etc) we immediately got snapping….alas armed only with a tiny camera. See all the photos on our Pinterest board. Get a feel of the experience and maybe chance upon a deal yourself. We used hotelbookings.com Other artistic delights in the region included Museé Matisse and the much recommended Fondacion Maeght in Antibes, where architecture, modern art and the...
Many vintage fans will have seen this exhibition of textile design by famous artists at the Fashion and Textile Museum, London (ends 17th May 2014) The exhibition (at the museum founded by Zandra Rhodes) highlights the exploration into textiles by twentieth century artists such as Dali, Picasso and Warhol as they sought to make their work less elitist and more relevant to the people. For those who are unable to visit, here are some photo highlights of the clothing and fabrics on view. See our post on facebook for all 29 photos Fabric designs by Pablo Picasso: Frontispiece, Fish and Toros Fabric designs by Salvador Dali Horrockses Fashions with artist designed fabrics Andy Warhol fabric designs: Melons,...
In the world of fashion, horse riding and it's accoutrements immediately communicate wealth, heritage and privilege…..old money in short! The Gucci ‘horsebit’ loafer, the Hermès square patterned with bridles, stirrups and medallions, the perennial riding boots and nipped in hacking jackets to name a few timeless classics. Charlottte Casiraghi of Gucci, Gucci 1953 horesebit loafers Elements of this style have been appropriated or subverted by designers including Vivienne Westwood and John Galliano. Remember the ubiquitous Dior ‘saddle bag’? Dior 'saddle bag', Vivienne Westwood jacket Brands such as Polo Ralph Lauren, Longchamp and Coach have gone even further to extend the equine associations beyond inspiration and directly into their brand names and logos. No such invention was required by Hermès....
