From gorgeous photography books to a deep dive into the extraordinary life of Jeanne Lanvin, here are the books you need in your life for 2023
This year brings with it a treasure trove of beautiful and enthralling books on fashion and style; from an investigation into the enduring influence of hip-hop and Thierry Mugler, to a deep dive into the rich world of Indian style and celebrations of some of our most iconic photographers.
Here are the most anticipated style books to look out for this year:
'Richard Avedon: Relationships' by Rebecca Senf
One of the greatest photographers of the 20th century, the late Richard Avedon left behind a formidable legacy and a body of work that was unparalleled upon his death in 2004. His most famous work was undoubtedly his intimate portraiture, and the relationships he forged with his impressive subjects — from Marilyn Monroe and Truman Capote to The Beatles — form the focus of this gorgeous tome. The collection of more than a hundred fashion photographs and celebrity portraits are taken from the exhibition of the same name, staged at the Palazzo Reale exhibition in Milan late last year and are a stunning and immersive celebration of an inspiring artist.
Published by Skira, 26 January. Buy here.
'The Impossible Collection of Jewelry' by Vivienne Becker
What’s a collection of lust-worthy fashion books without a doorstopper of an Assouline? The latest impeccable creation from the most stylish publishers in town is this extraordinary curation of breath-taking jewellery, appropriately titled ‘impossible’. Fine jewellery historian Vivienne Becker has collated some of the finest jewels of the last century, bringing you a feast for the senses that includes Art Deco Cartier, Tiffany classics and the sparkling new styles of emerging designers that would indeed form the most impossible — but most greedily desired — jewellery box.
Published by Assouline this March. Buy here.
'Be-Spoke: Revelations from the World’s Most Important Fashion Designers' by Marylou Luther
This delightful, fascinating book is a must for any passionate devotees of style history. It is penned by the iconic fashion journalist Marylou Luther, who has poured her 70 year career into this book, mining her interviews with some of the most significant designers of the last century for this impressive coterie of stylish insight. With words from Miuccia Prada and Christian Dior, Coco Chanel and Virgil Abloh, this is a treasure trove to be explored, and features a brilliant afterward by Rick Owens.
Published by Rizzoli this February. Buy here.
'Dior Metamorphosis' by Robert Polidori
This gorgeous book takes an exclusive inside look at the extensive renovations of one of the most famous addresses in fashion: 30 Avenue Montaigne. Through stunning images captured by acclaimed photographer Robert Polidori, you can experience the radical 'metamorphosis' of Dior’s headquarters, as it unearthed the rarely seen layers of Dior’s former home, and renovated it with impressive precision and, of course, style.
Published by Rizzoli this February. Buy here.
'Jeanne Lanvin: Fashion Pioneer' by Pierre and Agata Toromanoff
A beautiful and thoroughly researched exploration of one of fashion’s most influential characters. This book unearths frequently overlooked facts about this remarkable woman, from her creation of the first fashion line for children to the first unisex perfume. The Toromanoffs have created a comprehensive book replete with striking illustrations and photographs.
Published by teNeues this March. Buy now.
'Fresh, Fly, Fabulous: 50 years of Hip-Hop Style' by Elizabeth Way and Elena Romero
One of the most influential cultural movements of the last 50 years, hip-hop has a resonance that stretches far beyond music. Here, authors Way and Romero chart the journey of hip-hop’s indelible impact on fashion, with insights from the ultimate insiders, such as designers Dapper Dan and April Walker, Vibe stylist Emil Wilbekin and former editor of The Source Kim Osorio, as well as photographers Janette Beckman, Jamel Shabazz and Ernie Paniccioli.
Published by Rizzoli this February. Buy here.
'Thierry Mugler' by Thierry-Maxime Loriot
A titan of the industry, who passed away last year, Thierry Mugler’s influence on fashion cannot be understated. This hefty, visually arresting tome is a deft collection of the items currently on show at the Couturissme exhibition at the Brooklyn Museum of Art. For those who can’t travel to New York, this book is a brilliant and lasting substitute — a true monument to this designer’s unique and defining aesthetic.
Published by Les Arts Décoratifs, 23 January. Buy now.
'India in Fashion' by Hamish Bowles
Respected style writer Hamish Bowles has turned his discerning eye to the rich and fascinating world of Indian fashion. Investigating the nation’s stunning history of textiles, garments and traditional embroidery, Bowles looks at the way these modes have been adopted and interpreted over the decades by designers from Elsa Schiaparelli to Gianni Versace. With a plethora of gorgeous imagery and text from global experts, this is an intoxicating read.
Published by Rizzoli this March. Buy now.
'Scandi Style' by Claire Bingham
The world is not letting go of its fascination with Scandinavian interiors and this latest tome is testament to that. A sleek coffee table book, packed with gorgeous imagery and handy tips, from its acclaimed design journalist author — who covers everything from Hygge to Lagom — consider this the bible for anyone keen to finesse their Scandi aesthetic.
Published by teNeues 10 July. Buy now.