Brit Chic brings together a bevy of snappy numbers including the best TV profiles of key British designers and rare documentary footage in sumptuous colour. From utility to utopia, kaftans to counter-culture, this collection explores the dreams and devotion of the artists who have heightened our sartorial senses since the late 1940s.
Welcome to the front row!
Ten to try
Fashion Fantasy (1946)
A Wren dreams of ditching her austere utility wear to become a Norman Hartnell mannequin.
Design for Fashion (1954)
In colour, the making of a gown in Giuseppe Mattli’s London atelier, from first sketch to finished creation.
In Gear (Look at Life) (1967)
Cool kids on the Kings Road.
Pacemakers: Biba (1970)
Pop down to Kensington for a photo shoot at Barbara Hulanicki’s iconic fashion store.
Insight – Zandra Rhodes (1981)
Peter Greenaway’s day-in-the-life portrait of the colourful designer.
The Clothes Show (1986)
Shoulder pads at the ready: Selina Scott and Jeff Banks present the first episode of the long-running show from London Fashion Week.
Vivienne Westwood Showreel (1989)
Rediscovered rushes for an avant-garde couture showcase, with Westwood’s Monroe-esque muse Sara Stockbridge.
Very Jean Muir (1993)
3-part series following the late dressmaker as she oversees her spring collection.
John Galliano (The South Bank Show) (1997)
Profile of the trailblazing British couturier as he takes the helm at Givenchy.
The Frock and Roll Years (2002)
Find out more with this invaluable 6-part chronicle of the post-war British fashion scene.