Designers inspired by the past/Research

We had to research modern artists, that are inspired in some shape or form by the past. I have chosen some artist that I think take great inspiration form the past as well as having modern day influences

Alexander McQueen remains well-known for his highly original collections and spectacular fashion shows which frequently evoked historical themes. McQueen took apprenticeships at the Savile Row tailors Anderson & Sheppard and then Gieves & Hawkes where he learned traditional British tailoring techniques. He later worked as a pattern cutter at the theatrical costumiers Angels and Bermans where he further focused his training in historic garment construction. McQueen’s 1995 Highland Rape collection, which placed him firmly on the world stage, was inspired by his own family history and the Highland Clearances. His radical re-presentation of historical narratives continued throughout his career alongside his innovative combination of contemporary and historic cut and materials. ‘I like to challenge history', he stated in the 2008 BBC series British Style Genius, in which he emphasised the semi-autobiographical nature of some of his historical subject choices. McQueen’s genius lie in being contemporary, futuristic and historical all at once.

Opera dress

Satin-Duchesse Puff Sleeve Dress

Alexander McQueen Runway Review | Fashion Week Fall 2013

“I don’t really get inspired [by specific women]. . . . It’s more in the minds of the women in the past, like Catherine the Great, or Marie Antoinette. People who were doomed. Joan of Arc or Colette. Iconic women.”

Yves Saint Laurent was a French fashion designer, and is regarded as one of the greatest names in fashion history. I found this dress design in 1965 and inspired by the Dutch art movement De Stijl and in particular by the works of the painter Piet Mondrian.

''Mondrian'' dress

Pien Mondrian

Piet Mondrian

Versace is an Italian fashion company and trade name founded by Gianni Versace in 1978. Gianni Versace‘s Spring 1991 collection featured outfits printed with Andy Warhol‘s brightly colored, silk-screened portraits of Marilyn Monroe, James Dean, another other famous icons.

Warhol’s works, which depicted pop culture icons in a brightly colored palette, were a perfect match for the flamboyant designs of Versace,