Dedication to a theme

I came across this 1997 Vogue shoot for the first time recently and was struck by how painterly these images look. Grave Coddington is the styling brains behind the story, with Steven Meisel behind the lens. I was totally captivated by these opulent, rich images - so different from the very natural and pared back editorials that are popular at the moment.

Coddington and Meisel have really captured the spirit of the roaring 1920s in America, when a sudden economic and industrial boom changed the way society behaved. The 'new woman' appeared on the scene - complete with a new wardrobe. For me this story by Coddington is so great because even though many of the clothes are contemporary, they are styled in a way that doesn't 'sell' them. I doubt many American Vogue readers rushed out and bought a feather boa. Instead this fashion editorial is dedicated to an age

  

Peter, Grace and Daria

   

 

 

A friend of mine recently pointed me in the direction of this Peter Lindberg shoot for US Vogue back in 2011. I haven't managed to upload the pictures in order, but I love the way the photographs tell a story - a proper photo narrative. And of course, the clothes are incredible. Grace Coddington strikes again.

Russia 1975

Jerry Hall, Norman Parkinson and protégée Grace Coddington for Russian Vogue.

 

Book Worm

I have just returned from Cornwall where I spend Christmas with my family, laden with a heavy bag of books. I love getting books as presents and did really well this festive period!

I have already torn through Grace Coddington's memoir, which I loved and found incredibly interesting. She is an idol of mine. I have a long list of Coddington shoots to google!

I was also recently given a book of Guy Bourdin's polaroids, which was great to look at alongside Coddington's book as she talks about working with him such a lot. Can't wait to spend more time staring at this beautifully put together book - Thank You, Charlie!

 

The birthday card Charlie gave me is worth a mention too:

 

WOW.