In January I spent a couple of very happy hours at the Dovecot Gallery in Edinburgh enjoying the fantastic (but sadly now finished) retrospective exhibition Liberty Art Fabrics & Fashion. The exhibition showcased an incredible range of clothing and accessories inspired by Liberty fabric, highlighting the huge impact that Liberty has had on fashion for 143 years! The innovative Liberty has remained an originator of key trends and design revivals from garments inspired by the Far East as far back as the early 19th century through to the iconic designs of the Swinging Sixties and on into the 21st century with botanical inspired prints. Many successful collaborations from Mary Quant and Yves Saint Laurent to more contemporary designers like Vivienne Westwood and Richard Quinn were highlighted... Scottish designers Marion Donaldson and Jean Muir too. Writing in Apollo, The International Art Magazine back in September, Robyne Calvert reminded us that Liberty fabrics and garments 'still have something to teach us about the significance of history in their designs - and of the power of colours, the delight of ornament, and the individuality of their wearers'. Another reviewer spoke of the 'dynamic energy to the brand that so many lesser labels lack, a dynamism that keeps it moving forwards, at the forefront of its own very particular brand of fashion, while still producing the classic fabrics, scarves and dressing gowns so beloved of so many customers'. I particularly loved the collaborations between Liberty and the French ready-to-wear clothing, perfume and accessories brand Cacharel, and the British shoe manufacturer and retailer Clarks. New shoes anyone...?!
