The stylish companion, the essential arm candy and the only accessory to be seen with when visiting this stunning V&A exhibition The Glamour of Italian Fashion Since 1945.
This lavish book provides a comprehensive look at Italian fashion from the end of the Second World War to the present day. If you haven’t yet been to see this show let us tempt you with this golden ingot of an exhibition catalogue.
V&A Publishing’s Managing Editor Anajli Bulley describes how the book brings together stunning fashion photography, archival material and previously unseen objects from private collections to explore Italian style from the post-war couturiers of the ‘Sala Bianca’ to the outstanding success of its ready-to-wear brands. Anjali explains how throughout the book “essays from experts working in the UK and Italy reveal the inspiration, reputation and craftsmanship of the Italian fashion industry.”
In addition to the stunning, glamorous content, the book in itself is an object to behold. With its luxurious gold foil lamination the book has been produced to a standard of exceptional quality. Our Production Controller, Davina Cheung, explains the decisions that were made in producing this fine object, “The book was printed and bound in Italy, which is appropriate considering the subject matter! The paper used is from an Italian paper mill and is FSC certified.”
The use of artisanal leather and fur production, exquisite knitwear and fine tailoring are all discussed and it is explained how they have all contributed to Italy’s unique position in the consciousness of stylish people everywhere. Designers and labels featured include Emilio Pucci, Giorgio Armani, Gucci, Fendi, Missoni, Valentino, Franco Moschino, Gianni Versace, Dolce & Gabbana, Miuccia Prada and Roberto Capucci just to name a few! As well as bespoke tailors and ready-to-wear menswear specialists such as Carlo Palazzi and Ermenegildo Zegna.
Alongside the images of gorgeous gowns that will make you claw at the pages, the book is also dedicated to the history of ever-so-sleek Italian Menswear. The achievement of a style that in Italy is termed ‘Sprezzatura’, probably best translated as a very masterly and accomplished form of dishevelment… An art form that Italian men, in their nonchalance attitude, have perfected down to a T… but it comes with a Warning (!) so take note boys *there is a fine line between achieving it and simply being sloppy.
If you don’t believe us come and experience for yourself in luxurious surroundings at the V&A Bookshop. Relax at our caffeine-free Italian Fashion Book Bar, a true readers oasis and a One-Stop shop for anyone interested in fashion. But if you cannot function without an Italian style espresso in hand, browse online from the comfort of your home.
Exploring Italy’s reputation for quality and style in the world of couture, this book is a treasure to behold and devour. A stylish book in sumptuous tomes you’d be silly not to daaaahhlring.
Very historic and classic fashion to read about, the designer jewellery in uk of that time was also of the same standards as the dresses are.