Avril Graham is the Executive Fashion & Beauty Editor at Harpers Bazaar. She's also a woman of striking style, sophistication, and good humor. Add to this the fact that she has raised two lovely boys with very nice manners and she is officially super-woman to me.
Avril Graham's Gifts Picks for Women with Style:
1. WOMEN by Lillian Bassman
This is a really wonderful coffee table book celebrating the work of one of the most influential female fashion photographers of our time..Lillian Bassman. Her photographs are a fantastic record of elegance and style, mostly taken in New York in the 50's and 60's. For me it is one of the most technically superior photography books capturing a real moment in time. A contemporary of Avedon, she was a force in the fashion world and worked for Harpers Bazaar which says it all.
2. Harpers Bazaar Fabulous at Every Age
This is a great little extra gift - we wrote this book illustrating and giving advice as an easy guide to dressing from age 20 through to 70 plus. It is a expanded version of the feature we run in the magazine every month which is so incredibly popular...I am always told by readers how much they love this section. The book is full of fashion advice and examples of well dressed celebrities reflecting each age group.
3.Slim Aarons. Once Upon a Time
Yet another photography book, not a new one, but one that just feels so interesting, a time capsule. He was a postwar photographer who captured images of the international elite in the era of the jet set...he set out to shoot on film "attractive people, doing attractive things in attractive places". The book is his view of the wealthy, privileged, and powerful. I love the retro feel of the reportage.
4. Jacqueline Kennedy : The White House Years
One of my all time favorite books. Its a beautiful coffee table book devoted to the style and enduring fashion legacy of Jacqueline Kennedy. It really takes an in depth, authoritative look at her rationale re clothing selections - the designers she chose, personal notes and anecdotes. It contains photographs of her truly spectacular White House looks with beautiful close up shots of each item as they are now. It enables the reader to look at the amazing construction of these iconic pieces...many of the
gowns, suits, dresses and accessories featured are from the John F Kennedy library. A real fashion book for those who also love the historical context
and the story behind each look.
5. More is More: Tony Duquette by Hutton Wilkinson
Beautifully colorful book that is all about the life and creative process of this American designer who created the most wonderful masterpieces - artwork jewelry, sets and interiors. This larger than life character produced the most elaborate designs and led a very interesting life. The books covers the international travels and details the very fabulous life of Tony and his wife Elizabeth "Beegle". The lived among royalty, movie stars and the well connected. Its a delve into a lifestyle long gone but Tony's legacy still lives on. Forward by John Galliano chief designer of Christian Dior in Paris.
