Sunday 22 January 2012

Period Style: Art Deco

Fashion trends for Spring/Summer wouldn't be complete without Art Deco, the style that took the world by storm in the interwar years. Gucci was the most obvious catwalk show celebrating this period.


Gucci (vogue.it)


Frida Giannini did an amazing job with her latest collection, from short jackets to dresses, this great style was taken to the forefront of the 21st century. Art Deco is also depicted in movies such as The Artist and The Great Gatsby which will be released by the end of this year.  


Etro (vogue.it)


There are several books about this fascinating style, one particularly related to fashion - Art Deco Fashion by Suzanne Lussier. Rizzoli will publish in March George Barbier: Master of Art Deco by Hiroshi Unno, featuring illustrations, costumes and set designs Barbier (1882-1932) did for theatre, film and ballet.


Georges Barbier, Fashion Illustration 1914


For those seduced by Art Deco fashion, I highly recommend a free lunchtime lecture on this subject by Dr Clare Rose at the Victoria & Albert Museum (21st March).


Ralph Lauren and Roberto Cavalli (vogue.it)


The elegance and glamour of this period was epitomised by Jeanne Lanvin, one of the most influential designers of the 1920s and '30s. Her amazing evening gowns revealed her skilful use of intricate trimmings, embroideries and beaded decorations.


Jeanne Lanvin dress, 1928


Josephine Baker also represents this era, she was an international star of sensational and exotic cabarets, having performed at the infamous Folies Bergères and at her own night club, Chez Josephine in Paris.


Josephine Baker

Art deco's linear symmetry with geometric and angular shapes inspired other designers such as Ralph Lauren, Roberto Cavalli and Alberta Ferretti, amongst others.


Alberta Ferretti (vogue.it)


This trend is gaining momentum so I would expect it to hit the catwalk again for the Autumn/Winter 12/13 season which is due to start next month.



Balmain and Paco Rabanne (vogue.it)


Other related posts:
Homage to Diana Vreeland, a Fashion Icon
3D Flower Power
Underwater World