Originally published to accompany the first major exhibition of the work of Gianni Versace in the UK since his death in 1997, this stylish book provides a glittering retrospective of one of the twentieth century´s most innovative and enigmatic designers.

Always flamboyant and outrageous, Versace´s imaginative and intelligent collections drew inspiration from pop culture and the street, as well as from his impressive knowledge of art and fashion. The exhibition is the most comprehensive collection of Versace ever shown and The Art and Craft of Gianni Versace attempts to reveal and celebrate Versace’s exuberant work. The book is split into two complementary perspectives – ‘Art’ and ‘Craft’. ‘Art’ lays out a glamorous array of designs, from asymmetric tailored suits to flamboyant print dresses, garments in leather and metal mesh, gorgeous evening wear and exotic theatre designs. Scattered through the pages are pictures of some of Versace´s most famous clients: Liz Hurley in the notorious safety-pin dress and Princess Diana. But the real stars are the exquisite designs themselves, created to flatter the female form and to lend panache to the male wardrobe. Understated elegance was not Versace´s aim: he wanted his clothes and their wearers to be noticed, admired and desired. ‘Craft’ looks at Versace´s highly inventive use of materials, such as Oroton, the metal mesh he created which can be draped like the finest silk. It shows his innovative weaving techniques, his unique, eccentric flair with fabrics and his extraordinary craftsmanship. The book has distinctive stylish page design and specially commissioned photography showing off Versace’s exquisite creations to perfection.