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There are so many wonderful books to read about fashion but none compare to the Edmonde Charles-Roux's "Theatre de la Mode". During World War 2, a group of the most important French designers banded together to create a collection of miniature mannequins and couture pieces that were designed to lift the spirits of wartorn Europe. Each "doll" came with its own accessories; real emerald brooches made by Van Cleef and Arpels, tiny umbrellas that opened and handbags that had eensy weensy pockets inside. The list of Parisian houses is astounding:
Callot Soeurs
The dolls were introduced in 1945 and taken around the world as a gesture of good will. Set up like tiny stages, each one - or group - has a backdrop by artists like Jean Cocteau and Christian Berard. For forty years, the entire Theatre de la Mode was thought to be lost and were then discovered packed away in a small museum in Washington State. Very few of the dolls were lost, some tiny evening gowns had to be restored and they are permanently housed now at the Maryhill in Goldendale. With photos of each and every doll (including details of who made the shoes , did the tiny wigs, the purses, the jewelry...) and tons of information about the birth of the concept and the artists behind it, this is perhaps the most incredible endeavor that the fashion industry has even taken on. Invaulable information on the most important designers in history and a stunning book even for those who do not value knowledge as much as they do pretty things. 190 pages, published in 1991 in conjunction with Metropolitan Mueum of Art's exhibition of the "Theatre de la Mode" in New York and now out of print. Book in near fine condition - dust jacket same. sold |
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