By Christiane de Nicolay-Mazery

Synopsis: Focusing on the architectural elements that have influenced some of the most sensational and varied evening gowns ever designed by three leading lights of 20th century fashion - Cristóbal Balenciaga, Philippe Venet and Hubert de Givenchy – this new book displays charm, elegance and haute couture.

Cristóbal Balenciaga, the great Spanish designer, created a style and invented new techniques. With his trademark creativity, command of tailoring, and timeless designs, Balenciaga continues to possess a prevailing influence upon the world of fashion.

Although respectful of haute couture, Philippe Venet distinguishes himself by his original use of colour and his innovative and imaginative tailoring.

The aristocrat of haute couture, Hubert de Givenchy continues to inspire the world of fashion with his sense of perfection.

Organized in conjunction with an exhibition assembled by de Givenchy at the Château de Haroué, a sumptuous 18th century palace built on the outskirts of Paris by the Princes of Beauvau-Craon, the book is replete with imagery both new and archival. Included are the wedding dress by Balenciaga which was worn by Queen Fabiola of Belgium and the infamous black dress created by Givenchy for Audrey Hepburn in Breakfast at Tiffany’s. The exhibition and the book are a luxurious tribute to the subtle harmony between haute couture creations and exceptional locations.

Christiane de Nicolay-Mazery is Creative Director at Christie’s France and is the author of many books on elegant French style, notably French Interiors and The Yves Saint Laurent – Pierre Bergé Collection, both published by Flammarion.

http://www.amazon.co.uk/

Hot Brands Cool Places Verdict
In the introduction Christiane de Nicolay-Mazery, says, “I planned this diminutive book as a reminder of those precious “compacts” those little cases of gold, enamel, or mother-of-pearl that people gave one another in centuries past as a sign of friendship. Its pages create links between the majestic architecture, the glamorous furnishings, the family portraits, the velvet and silken wall linings and the world of haute couture. Brocades, organzas, shantungs, charmeuse satins and embroideries mirror paintings, sculptures, bronzes, and rare artefacts. Gowns and objets d’art whisper secrets to each other across the centuries, speaking of elegance and beauty”

This is an exquisitely beautiful book, the magical photographs, the illustrations, the inspiring quotes and the background information, make this a book to treasure, we absolutely loved it! Highly Recommended!