Mary Quant

Mary Quant (b. 1934) was an icon of her generation and the personification of 1960s “swinging London.” This book, published to accompany a landmark exhibition at the Victoria and Albert Museum, London, declares that she revolutionized and democratized fashion, creating fashion for everyone. It explores her then-subversive approach, setting her contribution in the context of British, European, and American fashion in the 1950s and ’60s. It surveys Quant’s life story—her art school background, the development of her retail business, and how she positioned herself as the face of her brand—before exploring the impact her brand has had on fashion, which is still seen today. Written with full access to Quant’s own archives, the book’s many illustrations include period photographs as well as new photography of her mod miniskirts and other designs.