London Society Fashion 1905–1925: The Wardrobe of Heather Firbank

by Cassie Davies-Strodder, Jenny Lister, Lou Taylor

Downton Abbey –era fashion is explored through the life and extensive wardrobe of real-life Edwardian London socialite Heather Firbank (1888–1954), whose treasures, bought from the world’s leading couturiers and the very best dressmakers and tailors in London, were gifted to the V&A after her death. The collection forms an invaluable record of a stylish and wealthy woman’s taste from about 1905 to 1920, and actually served as inspiration to Downton Abbey ’s Emmy Award–winning costume designer, Susannah Buxton. Beautifully illustrated with new photography of Firbank’s evening gowns, tailored suits, and hats, the book also features contemporary photographs and pages from Firbank’s own fashion cuttings albums.

Genres: Fashion, Nonfiction, Historical, History

160 pages, Hardcover

First published April 7, 2015

Reviews

[Alexa Oliphant · Rating 5 out of 5]

London Society Fashion is a book that upon first glance appears to be nothing more than pictures, but aims at being so much more. The fashion of one relatively well off young woman tells the much more complicated story of Heather Fairbank - a woman who lost a father and two brothers in short succession, had her youth disrupted by WWI, engaged in an illicit affair with an older man,and found herself without means, status, or husband by 26. All of this is evident in her clothing choices from the period, from her girlish debutante gowns to more sophisticated (and often in flattering blue), ornate mourning pieces, and simple war time suits. A person who would have otherwise been forgotten by time and family lives on.

The book also delves into the world of milliners, dressmakers, bills, inspiration, and generally fascinating aspects of what the society at the turn of the twentieth century looked like for a young, fashionable woman in London.

[Beky · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent book. Descriptions of the beautiful Edwardian outfits and Heather Firbanks lifestyle are descriptive. I just want to be there to witness the amazing outfits. Well documented, excellent photos. A must to read.

[Marilyn · Rating 3 out of 5]

The story of Heather filter through the pictures and the beginning biography. Interesting.

[Amber · Rating 5 out of 5]

Absolutely beautiful and fascinating.

[Pat · Rating 5 out of 5]

A fascinating insight into Edwardian era fashion and society 1905-1925. Heather Firbank's wardrobe is a beautiful look into what it was to be a woman of high society. Lushly photographed and illustrated including couture from many London Fashion Houses makes this book essential eye candy for the fashion conscious. In addition, her clothes tell the interesting story of her life. Highly recommended.