An Archive Showcasing the Work of New York Fashion Designer Geoffrey Beene (Including 2 Photo Albums and a Portfolio of Original Watercolor Sketches)

1981. Ephemera. Near Fine. Impressive archive devoted to the work of renowned New York fashion designer Geoffrey Beene (1924-2004). Includes 2 one-of-a-kind photo albums showcasing his clothing designs and a large portfolio of original free-flowing watercolor sketches. Beene was celebrated for his simple yet sophisticated designs; colorful, dynamic and comfortable. He playfully experimented with inexpensive fabrics such as denim and sweatshirt for evening wear and left his artistic mark on a wide range of accessories including eyewear, watches, and perfume. Beene's easy-to-wear layered looks were popular in Japan. The 2 photo albums profile his 1978 and 1981 fall/winter shows respectively, both sponsored by Tokyo's famous Takashimaya department store. Handsomely embossed in gold, the 1978 album documents Beene's arrival at the Tokyo airport, followed by drinks and social gatherings. Beene visits the department store, then hosts the runway show and sits for questions afterward. The album continues to cover a media appearance and travel by train. Contains 140 color photos of varying sizes; two fold-out posters are secured at the front and rear pastedowns. The second album holds 42 6 ¼ x 4 ¼ color prints documenting the 1981 Takashimaya show, Beene's appearance on stage, a retail shop visit, and dinner out. Both albums colorfully convey, in their layered motion and variety of sheens and textures, why his work was so popular. And lastly, the large binder, which holds 48 hand-drawn watercolor sketches that explore color and shape, taking their cue from classic forms updated with a Modernist sensibility. 3 textile swatches are attached to one drawing and 10 additional sketches are included as b/w copies. An unusual crop, offering an intimate look at late '70s/early '80s high fashion, from New York to Tokyo, through the prism of one of New York's top designers.