The first book to celebrate the work of beloved British fashion designer Erdem Moralioglu, published to coincide with the designer’s twentieth year in fashion.

Romantic and poetic, yet edgy, bold, and contemporary, Erdem’s creations have captivated the global fashion scene for two decades. Taking inspiration for his collections largely from women—rebels—who lived just as they wanted to, Erdem has fashioned a universe where his deep love and appreciation for the past is seamlessly joined with a passion for the here and now. 

Renowned soprano Maria Callas; Dame Edith Sitwell, a Bloomsbury satellite; Princess Orietta Doria Pamphilj, a descendant of Pope Innocent X; and the LGBTQ writer Radclyffe Hall are only a few examples of the women whose life stories have been spun into the fabric of Erdem’s collections. Evidence of his love of deep research, the book contains many archival items related to his collections that have been photographed especially for this book. Signature floral dresses and organza gowns displayed alongside the personalities and objects that helped inspire them bring to life the material world of the muse and Erdem’s inventiveness in translating stories into textile form. His designs have established him as a favorite among fashion insiders, celebrities, and royalty.  

A wardrobe of wonders, this much-anticipated book looks at the genius behind one of the most celebrated, independent houses of fashion’s twenty-first century. A series of essays by renowned fashion voices illuminate the designer’s process, craft, and inspirations and complete this highly personal volume.

About The Author

Erdem Moralioglu MBE earned his master’s degree in 2003 from the Royal College of Art. After working with Vivienne Westwood and Diane von Furstenberg, he launched his eponymous label in 2005. He has received numerous accolades, including the British Fashion Council’s Designer of the Year award and the Vogue Fashion Fund Award. Maria Balshaw CBE is director of Tate, London. Tim Blanks is editor-at-large, Business of Fashion. Hugo Macdonald is global design director of Wallpaper. Sarah Mower MBE is a fashion journalist and critic for US Vogue and an advocate for young designers. She is the British Fashion Council’s Ambassador for Emerging Talent and Chair of the NEWGEN committee. Charlie Porter is a writer, fashion critic, and curator. He has written for the Financial Times, the Guardian, The New York Times, GQ, Luncheon, i-D and Fantastic Man. Ruthie Rogers is a renowned chef, restaurateur, and cofounder of the River Café, a Michelin-starred restaurant in London. Polly Stenham MBE, FRSL is a playwright known for her play That Face. Dan Thawley is a writer, curator, and artistic director. He is the former editor-in-chief of A Magazine Curated By. Anna Wintour is editor in chief and chief content officer of American Vogue and Condé Nast.