Behind almost every item in the modern wardrobe is a 'first of its kind' - the definitive item, often designed by a single company or brand for a specific use, on which all subsequent versions have been based. The T-shirt, now an everyday item, was created by Hanes for US Navy personnel at the turn of the 20th century and was subsequently adopted by sportsmen and bikers. Other items designed for sport, farm work or protection have made their way into everyday use. "Icons of Style" examines, garment by garment, the most important and famous of these products - their provenance and history, design, the brand or company that started it all and how the item shaped the way we dress today. 

Inspiring images of the best examples of the garment - from the 1930s to contemporary times, from Marlene Dietrich to Mick Jagger - show the timeless beauty of these garments that are the basics of style.

Paperback, 368 pages