Hardy Amies

(Born 1909) Trained at W. & T. Avery in Birmingham and then from 1934 at Lachasse where his mother was employed. Became managing director at Lachasse followed by a brief spell at Worth (London) Ltd. Set up own couture house in 1946. Dressed the Queen from 1948 and received a royal warrant in 1955. Launched ready-lo-wear in 1950 and menswear in 1962. Knighted 1989. Famous for understated tailoring and regal ball gowns. Author of Just So Far (London: Collins 1954); Still Here (London: Weidenfeld & Nicolson 1984).

Source: The Cutting Edge - 50 years of British Fashion. The Overlook Press.

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