For Style File Friday for November (as we are back again on the first Friday of each month!), we are turning to another fashion history book series. Fashion history is so often ignored and even mocked for being shallow and “not serious”. However, we all wear clothing. And the skills that designing and making clothing requires should not be underestimated. So, I am always happy to find a new book that helps make fashion history more accessible to the general public. Books like The Little Book of Alexander McQueen and others in the Little Book of Fashion series are a great primer and provide a beautiful introduction to iconic fashion houses.
Little Book of Fashion Series
If you are new to An Historian About Town, this might be new to you. If you are a returning reader, please bear with me!
Making history- all areas of history- accessible to anyone and everyone is of utmost importance to me. It is one of the main reasons that I’ve had this site for almost a decade now- I want people to be able to learn and explore more about history with the least number of barriers possible. Some barriers are financial and physical, and I do my best to provide options that are available online or through libraries (if you have access). And some barriers are more knowledge-based- much of the time, books and sources require previous knowledge that can be difficult to acquire.
This is a book series that provides intros to several different well-known fashion houses. I find that these are a great place to start when dipping into fashion history because these designers and houses are discussed a lot. You can get these books as physical books or ebooks, depending on your preference. Each has a basic intro to the house and who has designed for it, as well as many colour photographs to complete it. I will say, they are smaller books- approximately 35x50cm- but they are beautiful to look at, and I enjoy them on my bookshelf.
I have included the three physical books that I currently have! I’m looking to add more to my permanent collection, but I’ve read several others from the library. They are very easy to read and all of the authors relay their expert subject with ease. All in all, I think that these are fantastic for someone new to fashion history, or someone who wants a beautiful book on their shelf.
Little Book of Alexander McQueen, Karen Homer
Ever since its creation in 1992, the House of Alexander McQueen has been synonymous with drama, risk-taking and cutting-edge innovation. From iconic collaborations, like with Lady Gaga for her “Bad Romance” music video, to shockingly controversial runway shows like The Horn of Plenty, Alexander McQueen was beloved for his fantastical silhouettes and blurring of gender lines.
This exquisitely illustrated volume explores the story behind the House, from McQueen’s own early days to the current leadership of Sarah Burton. Through a carefully curated collection of finished designs, close-up details and sketches, this book pulls back the veil on the wonderful world of McQueen.
Little Book of Burberry, Darla-Jane Gilroy
Sophisticated, simple, and quintessentially British, Burberry is beloved for its remarkable ability to straddle tradition and innovation. The allure of the ‘Burberry Girls’, like Cara Delevingne, Kate Moss or Naomi Campbell, epitomizes just what Burberry is about: aspiration, elegance and grace.
Featuring an exquisite range of photographs, from finished designs to close-up details and beautifully styled shots, this book pulls back the curtain on the story behind the brand. Touching on its humble beginnings in 1856, all the way up to its current designs, this invaluable reference is the definitive word on all things Burberry.
From their heritage trenches and ubiquitous check to experimental red carpet looks, the House of Burberry is known worldwide for its covetable designs.
Little Book of Givenchy, Karen Homer
‘It’s a fabulous thing to give life to fabric, to make something move well, the harmony of color.’ – Hubert de Givenchy Ever since Audrey Hepburn stood outside Tiffany’s, croissant in hand, Givenchy has been the last word in elegant couture. The clean, sweeping lines and classic, feminine silhouettes have enthralled women from the Duchess of Sussex to Kendall Jenner, all of whom adore the romanticism and sophistication of a Givenchy ensemble. More sculptor than designer, Hubert de Givenchy created a house that is utterly timeless. This exquisitely illustrated volume explores the story behind the brand, from its creation in 1952 to its current leadership and designs. Through a carefully curated collection of finished designs, close-up details and key moments, this book shines a light on the dazzling world of Givenchy.
Interested in more fashion history?
If you would like to explore more fashion history, I’ve linked all of my Style History posts below! These posts are individual histories of different designers who have made their mark in fashion. And like the books above, they are written to be accessible and enjoyable for everyone, no matter what your knowledge/ experience is.
If you have any questions about fashion history, please leave a comment and let me know!
Cheers,
The Historian
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