Quant By Quant

Autobiographies are not my favourite genre of books but I was especially surprised Nee riveted, by Quant by Quant.  Originally published in 1966 I was sent a newly republished review paperback copy by the V&A; the pewter cover is lush with faint dress sketches on the inside sleeve, making  for a charming keepsake.  The story is so endearing because Quant is able to mix fact, and experience in a way that makes the story so compelling I wish I was there to see the eccentric outfits worn by her husband and business partner Alexander Plunket. From the introduction the other protagonist in the book, beside Quant herself, draws you in, and makes you completely understand why she fell for him.  This is also a great insight in to the turning point in  fashion, and the importance of ‘the teenager’ coming in to the fore, and where Quant herself stood in that fashion revolution, and how she herself helped to cultivate it; even if she didn’t know it at the time, living hand to mouth. On paper the book is Mary Quants early life and career, growing up in Blackheath whilst enduring boarding school, which she hated, being evacuated during the blitz, and discovering a natural talent for dressmaking.  She travels the world but it all started with the bazaar which was imagined to be a bouillabaisse  of fashion accessories and trinkets on Kings Road which is still there to this day. What you will get is the message to be an individual,  follow your passion, don’t always take someone else’s first opinion, work hard,  have fun amongst great company and enjoy the ride. Quant by Quant is available at the V&A shop priced £8.99

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