Lucien Lelong

Lucien Lelong was a central figure in French fashion from the 1920s to the 1950s, and his designs were in many ways precursors of contemporary fashion shapes and developments.

Noted for his skill, exquisite workmanship and beautiful fabrics, Lelong and his house promoted a fluid, minimalist, elegant look.

Lelong blended modern design with a strong business sense and was noted for both his fashions and his entrepeneurship.

He was one of the earliest designers to diversify into lingerie, accessories and perfumes, and in 1934 he introduced a luxury ready-to-wear line.

During the Occupation in World War II he was instrumental in persuading the Germans to allow French couture houses to remain in Paris rather than moving to Berlin.

This book, a wonderfully illustrated history of Lelong and his house, chronicles the period and its leading personalities, artists and designers.