Against the background of Laura Ashley’s life – from her birth in South Wales in 1925 to her sudden death in 1985 – Martin Wood tells the story of the iconic brand she and her husband, Bernard, created. Beginning with the textiles they designed and printed at home in their three-room flat in the 1950s, Wood looks at how, when they began designing and selling dresses, blouses and other clothes, and launched a range of household textiles and furnishings, ‘Laura Ashley style’ became a phenomenon.
The story is richly illustrated with more than 200 photographs and drawings, many never previously published, from the company’s archives and the Ashley family’s private records.
From reviews of Nancy Lancaster
'Excellent . . . the best title on taste and design published this year' Financial Times
'Of all the books on houses and gardens . . . this one takes the cake' Deborah, Duchess of Devonshire, Spectator
'A rare treat, fluently written and superbly illustrated Daily Telegraph
The book as a whole is a delight and kept me interested for hours. - Cambrian News
In an uncertain economic climate, what could be better than a dollop of British nostalgia with your scone? - BBC Homes & Antiques
A beautifully compiled record of the life and inspirations behind the legend that is Laura Ashley. Drawn from first-hand accounts, Martin Wood skilfully documents the history of what has become a highly successful and influential brand. - Easy Living
Back in the days before anyone had heard of Cath Kidson, one name dominated the worlds of fashion and interiors: Laura Ashley. - Daily Mail
Beautifully illustrated biography - Daily Mail
Publication Details:
Binding: Hardback, 192 pages ISBN: 9780711228979 Format: 287mm x 230mm
over 200 colour and b/w illustrations
BIC Code:WJF, WJK BISAC Code:ART011000 Imprint: Frances Lincoln
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