thetimes.com
Three New Books Explore Fashion Icons and Royal Excess
Three new books explore the lives and legacies of fashion icons Valentino Garavani, Brigitte Bardot, and Patrick Demarchelier, alongside a book on the style of Marie Antoinette, showcasing their impact on fashion and culture.
- What are the potential long-term impacts or implications of these publications?
- These publications serve as valuable historical records, preserving the legacy of these influential figures and providing insights into past fashion trends. They also contribute to ongoing conversations about the representation of women in fashion and the role of photography in shaping cultural narratives.
- How do these books contribute to our understanding of fashion and cultural history?
- These books offer a multifaceted view of 20th-century fashion, highlighting the evolution of haute couture, the changing representation of women, and the impact of photography on shaping cultural icons. They capture significant moments in fashion and social history through personal stories and visual narratives.
- What are the key insights offered by these books about the individuals and their impact?
- The books reveal Valentino Garavani's journey from postwar Italy to becoming a haute couture legend, dressing iconic figures like Jackie Kennedy. Brigitte Bardot's book showcases her free-spirited nature and enduring legacy as a symbol of 1960s liberation. Patrick Demarchelier's work is highlighted as defining the aesthetics of several decades, particularly his role in creating the supermodel image and photographing Princess Diana.
Cognitive Concepts
Framing Bias
The review focuses on the positive aspects of each book, highlighting their luxurious nature and the fame of the subjects. There's an emphasis on the price points, suggesting a certain level of exclusivity. This framing might appeal to a high-end audience but could leave out readers less interested in luxury items.
Language Bias
Language used is largely positive and descriptive, employing words like "mighty tome," "lavish photography," "princely interiors." While descriptive, this choice of words leans towards a celebratory rather than neutral tone. The use of quotes from admired figures also adds to the positive framing.
Bias by Omission
The review omits potential negative criticisms of the subjects or the books themselves. For example, it doesn't mention any controversies surrounding the subjects' lives or any potential shortcomings of the books' content or presentation. Given the space constraints, this is understandable, but it results in a one-sided perspective.
Gender Bias
While featuring prominent female figures, the descriptions occasionally focus on physical attributes or luxury items associated with femininity (e.g., 'frothy and feminine gowns'). This is not overtly biased, but a more balanced approach would consider achievements and contributions beyond appearance.
Sustainable Development Goals
The books focus on the lives of high-profile individuals, offering a glimpse into a world of wealth and luxury. While not directly addressing inequality, they indirectly highlight the vast disparities in wealth and opportunity that exist globally. The contrast between the lavish lifestyles depicted and the realities faced by many serves as a commentary on socioeconomic inequality.