Customer Reviews

The Art and Craft of Gianni Versace

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An excellent look at the career of Gianni Versace. Published to accompany the retrospective exhibit "Versace at the V & A" which opened in the fall of 2002, the first section is a text on the art of Gianni Versace. Covering the overall themes that he showed in various collections, it is followed by photographs and detailed descriptions of the garments. There are explanations on various materials that Versace used, and how he often manipulated them to get the effect he desired. Following a section devoted to the designs of Donatella Versace, who took over after her brother's death, is a section on the craft of Versace - how he had fabric created with a specific weave, or painted, or embellished to his specifications in order to create the look he desired.

As a designer, the details about how the fabrics and designs were created is very interesting and informative. It is the photographs, however, that I enjoyed the most. Simply looking at the combinations of colors and textures that he created, the shapes he formed from various fabrics, and the unexpected details he used is a continuing inspiration to me.

This is an excellent book detailing the beautiful creations of Gianni Versace.
The book was a companion to a retrospective exhibition set by the V&A museum in 2002. The book is very well made and loaded with spectacular color photos showing the pieces at their best along with close-up shots.
The book is divided into two large sections; 1) The Art: which basically showcases an exquisite selection of Versace's creations for both men and women. 2) The Craft: deals with Versace's sources of inspiration as well as displaying close-up shots revealing the unique techniques used to create the pieces.
This is a highly recommended book for all fashion enthusiasts. I just wish that someday someone would consider publishing a coffee-table monograph detailing the genius of Versace. However, until then this book fits the bill.