A Life In Fashion: The Wardrobe of Cecil Beaton

As far as we are concerned, Cecil Beaton is one of the most rakish gents ever to have lived. The British photographer (although he was so much more than that) won Oscars for set and costume design and created some of the most beautiful and memorable fashion photographer ever. Now, his wardrobe comes under scrutiny in a new book.

The new Thames & Hudson release by fashion historian Dr. Benjamin Walker shows how Beaton was fashionable in a way that was beyond the dandyism of the day. He often wore clothes from different eras and periods and loved to mix these up with a good suit. Vintage clothing like double-breasted jackets and antique waistcoats were a cornerstone of his wardrobe. 

A keen and frequent traveller, the book draws attention to pieces obtained through travel in America, Hong Kong and Europe. But it was always Savile Row that Cecil Beaton went to for his suits. He was a big fan of tailors Anderson & Sheppard and Huntsman who created impeccably fitted suits for Beaton that were perfect for his all important trips to Buckingham Palace.

The book traces Beaton’s style, decade by decade and is full of a wide range of images including self-portraits, candid’s and professional shots that all show off his impeccable sense of style.

 Available from £20.37 at Amazon.