Ballgowns

This unique and groundbreaking book presents dynamic photographs of 60 years of British ballgowns and includes designs by Alexander McQueen, Bellville Sassoon, Erdem, Gareth Pugh, Stella McCartney, and Zandra Rhodes. Britain’s traditional season of debutante parties, private balls, weddings, and charity events has long provided fashion designers with opportunities to create elaborate, tour-de-force eveningwear; in more recent years, the ballroom has been replaced by the red carpet. Though the context has changed, the ballgown remains a staple in many designers’ collections and continues to serve as an expression of status, protocol, and taste, while simultaneously embodying elements of drama and fantasy.