ADOLFO (Designer)

This impromptu snap of society figures Mr and Mrs Wyatt Cooper is one of Adolfo's favourite pictures, and not just because both are wearing his refined clothes. He says, “Getting dressed and going out is fun only because we don't do it often - it's good to feel glamorous once in a while.” But his glamour never strays into the realms of vulgarity. Adolfo worked first as a milliner, then trained at Chanel and Balenciaga, before setting up his New York salon. There, Adolfo provided his famous knitted suits, one of which is worn here by Gloria Vanderbilt). Inspired by Coco Chanel's jersey sportswear and iconic suits, they were bought by New York's old society. When his salon closed in 1993 his clientele were distraught, not least Nancy Reagan, who had worn Adolfo's clothes for two decades. She, perhaps more than anyone, embodied his assertion that, “An Adolfo lady should look simple, classic and comfortable.

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