STYLE: Photographs for Vogue

STYLE is “the first book solely devoted to Norman Parkinson's stylish and beautiful contributions to Vogue magazine, from the 1930s to the end of his contract in the early 1980s.” So writes author Terence Pepper in the introduction to this lavish volume of photographs – some iconic, some freshly rescued from obscurity, all thrilling. Pepper was for 40 years the Curator of Photographs at London's National Portrait Gallery, and in that role has written more than 15 books, including works on Helmet Newton, Cecil Beaton, Man Ray, Lewis Morley, James Abbe, and Horst P. Horst. He was also the lead curator of the 1981 exhibition, “Norman Parkinson: 50 years of Portraits and Fashion.” Clearly there is absolutely no one better qualified than Pepper to give us this gorgeous, informative new work on the quirky and unrivaled British fashion photographer, Norman Parkinson. (Pepper was savvy, too, to have the assistance of the fashion researcher and model, Grace Lee.)Pepper explains that “the majority of the images in this book have been selected from original vintage prints or new prints from negatives to show Parkinson's published Vogue images.” And what images they are! Wenda Parkinson rides an ostrich in South Africa (May 1951)... four fashion models in colorful hats perch on the roof of the Conde Nast Building on Lexington Avenue NYC (October 1949)... Jerry Hall poses in a red bathing cap and bathing suit with coordinated Manolo Blahniks ready to dive off the top of a plinth in the USSR (January 1976). Also here are photographs of celebrities, including: Audrey Hepburn, Marlene Dietrich, Montgomery Cliff, Jean Seberg, Princess Anne, and Katherine Hepburn.Unlike the majority of books of this type, Pepper offers us information and insights into the models who appear in Parkinson's photographs. From Carmen Dell’Orefice to Iman, Twiggy, and Loulou de la Falaise – with Grace Coddington in between – just about all of the top models of the period were captured by Parkinson’s camera. Pepper should be commended for fleshing out the stories of the women pictured. And, of course, Parkinson’s unique eye, coupled with his love of travel, result in settings that are frequently stunning and exotic.As a fashion historian with 30 years of experience researching photos, I was personally delighted to find that there are pages and pages of photographs that are new to me. The previously-unseen fashion advertisements from 1930s Vogue alone are worth the price of this book. My only real criticism of this book Is not leveled at Terence Pepper, but at the publishers. Between the rose-tinted pages and the tiny size of much of the text, they could have made this beautiful book easier to read.Yet, with its richly embossed cover, featuring Parkinson's exquisite 1950 photograph of top model Jean Patchett in a Jean Desses evening gown, this book is a must-have for anyone excited about 20th century fashion. It will add “Style” to any coffee table. I would be thrilled to find this book on the bedside of any guest room I happened to visit. Currently reduced on Amazon, I will definitely buy more copies and secret them away for friends’ and daughters’ birthdays and holiday presents. As Vogue itself stated: “Norman Parkinson will never go out of style.”

Norman Parkinson's work and career come alive in this beautifully curated book, offering an insightful look into the life of one of fashion photography's most influential figures. From his early days to his iconic status, the book traces Parkinson's groundbreaking contributions, capturing both his signature style and creative evolution over decades. Known for injecting a sense of movement, humor, and spontaneity into fashion photography, Parkinson challenged the norms of the era, pushing the boundaries of what fashion imagery could be.One fascinating aspect explored is his personal and professional relationship with his wife, Wenda Rogerson, who was not only his muse but also a successful model in her own right. Their collaboration resulted in some of Parkinson's most memorable work, as Wenda became a central figure in his imaginative vision of beauty and elegance. Their partnership is beautifully reflected in the book, shedding light on how their bond influenced Parkinson's artistic approach.Additionally, this large-format book does justice to Parkinson's stunning visuals, offering a grand, immersive experience that allows readers to appreciate the full scope of his iconic work. It’s not only my favorite book about Parkinson, but one of my favorite photography books overall. The blend of breathtaking visuals and insightful narrative makes it a must-have for anyone passionate about fashion photography or the art of capturing beauty in motion.

It looked great, but I bought it as a present for my aunt who is a big Vogue fashion fan and has been for her whole life. She said she liked it so I think it was a hit! I was longing to open it myself and have a look but books are never the same once they've been opened so I wrapped it and posted it!