Top Books Written by Fashion Designers

Fashion designers are not just creators of beautiful garments; they are also storytellers who share their visions, philosophies, and personal journeys through their writings. These books offer readers a unique glimpse into the creative minds behind some of the most iconic fashion houses and trends. Whether you’re a fashion enthusiast, a student of design, or simply curious about the world of haute couture, this curated list of top books written by influential fashion designers provides invaluable insights and inspiration. Below, we explore twelve must-read books, each accompanied by a brief biography of the designer and the significance of their work.

1. Christian Dior – The Little Dictionary of Fashion and Dior by Dior

About Christian Dior: Christian Dior (1905–1957) was a French designer who revolutionized post-war fashion with his “New Look” silhouette, characterized by cinched waists and full skirts. His eponymous fashion house remains a cornerstone of luxury fashion.

• The Little Dictionary of Fashion (1954): This charming guide, first published in 1954, is a concise yet elegant exploration of fashion terminology. Written with Dior’s signature wit, it covers everything from how to dress for a wedding to walking with grace. Its timeless advice makes it a must-read for anyone interested in the language of style. The book’s pastel pink hardcover and practical insights reflect Dior’s belief in accessible elegance.
• Dior by Dior (1957): Dior’s autobiography offers an intimate look into his life, from his childhood to the founding of his fashion house. It details his creative process, the challenges of establishing a global brand, and the impact of his revolutionary designs. This book is essential for understanding the man behind the iconic “New Look” and the evolution of modern couture.

Why Read These? Both books provide a window into Dior’s philosophy and the mid-20th-century fashion world, making them foundational texts for fashion students and enthusiasts.

2. Tom Ford – Tom Ford

About Tom Ford: Tom Ford (born 1961) is an American designer known for his sensual, luxurious designs at Gucci and his own eponymous brand. His work redefined modern glamour, blending sophistication with bold aesthetics.

• Tom Ford (2004): This visually stunning book is a retrospective of Ford’s work, featuring breathtaking photography and his personal reflections on fashion, beauty, and creativity. It chronicles his time at Gucci and Yves Saint Laurent, showcasing iconic designs that shaped the 1990s and 2000s. The book is both a collector’s item and a deep dive into Ford’s aesthetic vision.

Why Read This? For those interested in contemporary luxury fashion, this book is a masterclass in design and branding, offering insights into Ford’s transformative impact on the industry.

3. Virgil Abloh – Virgil Abloh. Nike. ICONS

About Virgil Abloh: Virgil Abloh (1980–2021) was a trailblazing designer who bridged streetwear and high fashion as the founder of Off-White and artistic director of Louis Vuitton’s menswear. His innovative approach redefined fashion’s cultural boundaries.

• Virgil Abloh. Nike. ICONS (2020): This book explores Abloh’s design process, showcasing how he transformed everyday objects and cultural references into fashion statements. Filled with sketches, photographs, and essays, it highlights his collaborations with Nike and his role in reshaping modern fashion.

Why Read This? Abloh’s book is a testament to his boundary-pushing creativity, making it essential for those interested in the intersection of streetwear, art, and luxury fashion.

4. Mary Quant – Quant by Quant

About Mary Quant: Mary Quant (1930–2023) was a British designer who defined the Swinging Sixties with her bold, youthful designs, including the iconic miniskirt. Her work revolutionized fashion by making it accessible and fun.

• Quant by Quant (1966): This lively autobiography captures Quant’s rise to fame, her innovative designs, and the cultural shifts of the 1960s. It details her journey from a small boutique in London to global recognition, offering a firsthand account of the era’s fashion revolution.

Why Read This? Quant’s book is a vibrant snapshot of 1960s fashion and culture, perfect for readers interested in the history of modern style and the birth of youth-driven fashion.

5. Vivienne Westwood – Get a Life: The Diaries of Vivienne Westwood

About Vivienne Westwood: Vivienne Westwood (1941–2022) was a British designer and activist known for her punk-inspired designs and provocative approach to fashion. Her work challenged conventions and influenced global trends.

• Get a Life: The Diaries of Vivienne Westwood (2014): This collection of diaries offers a raw, unfiltered look at Westwood’s life, from her design process to her activism on issues like climate change. It’s a candid exploration of her thoughts on fashion, politics, and society, written in her distinctive voice.

Why Read This? Westwood’s diaries provide a unique perspective on the intersection of fashion and activism, appealing to readers who admire her rebellious spirit and creative legacy.

6. Paul Poiret – King of Fashion: The Autobiography of Paul Poiret

About Paul Poiret: Paul Poiret (1879–1944) was a French designer who revolutionized early 20th-century fashion by liberating women from corsets and introducing exotic, avant-garde designs.

• King of Fashion: The Autobiography of Paul Poiret (1931): This historical autobiography details Poiret’s life and career, from his beginnings in Paris to his innovative designs that transformed fashion. It explores his role in introducing vibrant colors, draped silhouettes, and Middle Eastern influences to Western fashion.

Why Read This? Poiret’s book is a crucial text for understanding the foundations of modern fashion, offering a glimpse into the early 20th-century couture world.

7. Dapper Dan – Dapper Dan: Made in Harlem

About Dapper Dan: Dapper Dan (born 1944) is a Harlem-based designer known for his custom logo-heavy designs that shaped hip-hop fashion in the 1980s and 1990s. His work has influenced luxury streetwear globally.

• Dapper Dan: Made in Harlem (2019): This memoir tells the story of Dapper Dan’s rise from Harlem’s streets to fashion icon, his influence on hip-hop culture, and his comeback after legal challenges. It’s a powerful narrative of resilience, creativity, and cultural impact.

Why Read This? This book is a compelling read for those interested in the intersection of fashion, music, and culture, highlighting Dapper Dan’s unique contribution to streetwear.

8. Elsa Schiaparelli – Shocking Life

About Elsa Schiaparelli: Elsa Schiaparelli (1890–1973) was an Italian-born French designer known for her surrealist-inspired designs and collaborations with artists like Salvador Dalí. Her work was characterized by bold colors and innovative shapes.

• Shocking Life (1954): This autobiography recounts Schiaparelli’s life, from her early years to her rise as a leading couturiere. It’s filled with anecdotes about her designs, her rivalry with Coco Chanel, and her collaborations with artists and intellectuals.

Why Read This? Schiaparelli’s book offers a fascinating look at the intersection of fashion and art during the early 20th century, making it essential for those interested in surrealism and avant-garde design.

9. Karl Lagerfeld – The World According to Karl and The Karl Lagerfeld Diet

About Karl Lagerfeld: Karl Lagerfeld (1933–2019) was a German designer who transformed Chanel and Fendi with his eclectic vision. A prolific creative, he also explored photography and writing.

• The World According to Karl (2003): This book is a collection of Lagerfeld’s thoughts on fashion, art, and life, presented through interviews and essays. It’s a witty and insightful look into the mind of one of fashion’s most enigmatic figures.
• The Karl Lagerfeld Diet (2004): Part memoir, part diet book, this work shares Lagerfeld’s approach to health and wellness, along with his philosophy on life and work.

Why Read These? Lagerfeld’s books offer a glimpse into his diverse talents and sharp wit, appealing to readers interested in his broader contributions to art and culture.

10. Diane von Furstenberg – The Woman I Wanted to Be

About Diane von Furstenberg: Diane von Furstenberg (born 1946) is a Belgian-born American designer best known for her wrap dress, which became a symbol of women’s liberation in the 1970s. She is also a businesswoman and philanthropist.

• The Woman I Wanted to Be (2014): This memoir traces von Furstenberg’s life from her childhood in Europe to her success as a designer and entrepreneur. It’s a story of resilience, creativity, and empowerment, filled with lessons on fashion, business, and life.

Why Read This? Von Furstenberg’s book is inspiring for anyone interested in fashion, entrepreneurship, and personal growth, offering a candid look at her journey to becoming a fashion icon.

11. Elizabeth Hawes – Fashion is Spinach

About Elizabeth Hawes: Elizabeth Hawes (1903–1971) was an American fashion designer and writer known for her critiques of the fashion industry. She was a pioneer of ready-to-wear fashion and an advocate for practical, affordable clothing.

• Fashion is Spinach (1938): This book is a satirical look at the fashion industry, where Hawes exposes the absurdities and pretensions of haute couture. It’s a witty and insightful commentary on fashion’s role in society.

Why Read This? Hawes’ book is a classic for anyone interested in the behind-the-scenes of fashion, offering a critical perspective that remains relevant today.

12. André Leon Talley – The Chiffon Trenches

About André Leon Talley: André Leon Talley (1948–2022) was an American fashion journalist and editor, best known for his work at Vogue and his larger-than-life personality. He was a significant figure in promoting diversity in fashion.

• The Chiffon Trenches (2020): This memoir recounts Talley’s career in fashion, from his early days at Andy Warhol’s Factory to his rise at Vogue. It’s a candid look at the fashion industry’s glamour and its darker sides, including racism and power struggles.

Why Read This? Talley’s book provides a unique perspective on the fashion world, making it essential for understanding the industry’s history and its evolution.

Conclusion

These books by fashion designers offer a rich tapestry of personal stories, creative insights, and historical context, making them essential reading for anyone passionate about fashion. From Christian Dior’s foundational texts to Virgil Abloh’s modern innovations, these works illuminate the artistry and impact of fashion design. Explore these titles to discover the stories behind the styles that have shaped our world. They are available through major retailers like Amazon, Barnes & Noble, or libraries, ensuring accessibility for all readers.

Book Summary Table