Oscar de la Renta

In October 2014 one of the fashion world’s champions, Oscar de la Renta, passed away, a great loss brightened by the innumerable successes of his half-century reign. The acclaimed fashion designer dressed first ladies from Kennedy to Obama, and celebrities from Beyoncé to Sarah Jessica Parker. Renowned for his unique charm, impeccable taste, and original lifestyle, he married the highest standards of French couture with the ultimate motivation that women must look and feel beautiful.

In this intimate fashion book, longtime editor and friend André Leon Talley recounts de la Renta’s journey through nearly 70 iconic dresses, mainly made for private clients, accompanied by fascinating stories of the exquisite craftsmanship and the legendary friends that brought each gown to life.

Born in the Dominican Republic in 1932, de la Renta left for Madrid at 19 to study art, where he rose to prominence as a sketch artist for newspapers and fashion houses. From his apprenticeship under Cristóbal Balenciaga to his eponymous collections, the designer’s simple lines elevated with a flamenco dancer’s flourish reflect his deep connection to his roots and his commitment to transcendence through beautiful garments.

About the Contributors

André Leon Talley is a writer and contributing editor to Vogue. He has written extensively on fashion and popular culture and has authored the books A.L.T.: A Memoir, A.L.T. 365+, and Little Black Dress. Anna Wintour is the editor in chief of Vogue and artistic director of Condé Nast. Paula Wallace is the president and founder of SCAD. Adam Kuehl is a SCAD alumnus. His work has appeared in publications including Little Black Dress, National Geographic Traveler, the New York Times, and Vogue.