Costume Jewelry for Haute Couture

by Florence Müller, Patrick Sigal

This sumptuously illustrated book surveys the exquisite range of costume jewelry produced by haute couture fashion houses, a subject until now overlooked by historians and fashion cognoscenti alike. The term “costume jewelry” was coined in the twentieth century for the use of non-precious metals and jewels for human adornment. This book showcases the extraordinary diversity and exceptional craftsmanship of this jewelry in hundreds of beautifully reproduced pieces from such fashion houses as Chanel, Balenciaga, Dior, Yves Saint Laurent, Lanvin, Schiaparelli, and Givenchy.

“A time capsule of creativity.” ~ Dallas Morning News

Genres: Jewellery, Nonfiction

272 pages, Hardcover

First published September 1, 2007

Reviews

[Megan]

When the book description says, "sumptuously illustrated," you know you are in for a treat. The photography of the jewelry takes center stage and is displayed often either by itself or with similar pieces from the same fashion house; the white background emphasizes the craftsmanship and beauty of the pieces. (See the book jacket for a visual description). I found myself drawn to the pieces from Yves Saint Laurent (the necklace on the cover is YSL).

The text gives background on how costume jewelry has evolved over the years. Its other focus is on how these items were created in the first place: the paruriers, the jewelry artisans who actually created and made the pieces, and their relationship with haute couture houses, who would bring design ideas for the costume jewelry.

I really want to buy a copy of this book for myself. Perfect for the fashion or jewelry lover.

[Karen]

This is one of the most sumptuously photographed books I have ever seen. Quite an inspiration to a budding jewelry designer.