Immerse yourself in fashion with our new picks for August – we have shiny new volumes on Chanel, shoes and fairytales, as well as an in-depth look at how the Second World War shaped and influenced women’s fashion.
Chanel catwalk : the complete Karl Lagerfeld collections / introductionby Patrick Mauriès.
“Ever since his first show for the house in 1983, Karl Lagerfeld’s Chanel collections have consistently made headlines and dictated trends the world over. For the first time, every Chanel collection ever created by Lagerfeld is here gathered in a single volume – a unique opportunity to chart the development of one of the world’s most influential fashion brands and discover rarely seen collections. A treasure trove of inspiration, this richly illustrated publication will be the must-have reference for all fashion professionals and Chanel obsessives.” (Syndetics summary)
Fashion on the ration : style in the Second World War / Julie Summers ; in partnership with Imperial War Museums.
“In September 1939, just three weeks after the outbreak of war, Gladys Mason wrote briefly in her diary about events in Europe: ‘Hitler watched German siege of Warsaw. City in flames.’ And, she continued, ‘Had my wedding dress fitted. Lovely.’For Gladys Mason, and for thousands of women throughout the long years of the war, fashion was not simply a distraction, but a necessity – and one they weren’t going to give up easily. In the face of bombings, conscription, rationing and ludicrous bureaucracy, they maintained a sense of elegance and style with determination and often astonishing ingenuity. As a nation went into uniform and women took on traditional male roles, clothing and beauty began to reflect changing social attitudes. For the first time, fashion was influenced not only by Hollywood and high society but by the demands of industrial production and the pressing need to ‘make-do-and-mend’. Beautifully illustrated and full of gorgeous detail, Fashion on the Ration lifts the veil on a fascinating era in British fashion.” (adapted from syndetics summary)
Moreschi : the Italian art of shoemaking : works of art in leather / edited by Christina Morozzi ; text, Christina Morozzi.
“An exclusive look inside the world of Moreschi, one of the world’s most prestigious shoemakers. Moreschi is renowned for its exacting standards and unique style, and for producing each and every pair on-site, from the arrival of the leather to boxing and dispatching to stores. The art of shoemaking is detailed throughout this richly illustrated book. Through conversations with the founder, the artisans’ memories, and pictures of dozens of the factory’s creations, a story unfolds that confirms the vast heritage of artisan culture that lies behind Italian production.” (Syndetics summary)
Fairy tale fashion / Colleen Hill.
“Dress plays a crucial role in fairy tales, signalling the status, wealth, or vanity of particular characters, and symbolizing their transformation. This is the first book to examine the history, significance, and imagery of classic fairy tales through the lens of high fashion. A comprehensive introduction to the topic of fairy tales and dress is followed by a series of short essays on thirteen stories. Generously illustrated, these stories are creatively and imaginatively linked to examples of clothing by Comme des Garc¸ons, Dolce and Gabbana, Charles James, and Alexander McQueen, among many others.” (adapted from syndetics summary)
Smart textiles for designers : inventing the future of fabrics / Rebeccah Pailes-Friedman.
“Smart Textiles for Designers introduces the different qualities and properties that can be embedded in, integrated with, and applied to fabrics, and looks at the different contexts in which these smart textiles can be used. A survey of specific fabrics grouped by properties provides a core reference section and a palette for the designer to work from. The book also examines five different design approaches and features interviews with leading designer and design teams, showing their processes and working methods. The first book to look at smart textiles through the eyes of a designer, this is both a core reference work and an inspirational guide for students and professionals alike.” (Syndetics summary)
Sublime elegance : the timeless charm of evening gowns / text by Maria Maccari.
“These evening gowns made history–influencing the worlds of fashion, entertainment, and contemporary culture. Splendid images capture the rich detail of the fabrics and the evolution of styles and trends in women’s formal wear. These sublimely elegant dresses electrified the spectators at leading fashion shows and glittered at celebrity events. Organized by fabric color, these gowns will take readers on a kaleidoscopic journey into haute couture.” (Syndetics summary)
The art of dressing curves : the best-kept secrets of a fashion stylist / Susan Moses with Jelani Bandele ; foreword by Emme.
“The Art of Dressing Curves gives plus-size women the confidence and know-how to dress beautifully for their particular body shape. From foundation garments to wardrobe essentials to hair and makeup, Susan dispenses advice on every aspect of dressing well for one’s shape, size, and personality, insight supplemented by a wealth of elegant editorial photographs, anecdotes, tips, and sidebars, as well as lists of specialty retailers, designers, and websites that cater to plus-size.” (adapted from syndetics summary)
