ELLIS Perry (Designer)

Ellis, who launched his own label in 1978, created a strong brand of American sportswear by emphasizing colour, often in stripes and blocks, and by using the textures of natural fibres. Here, linen is used for a T-shirt and skirt, joined in the middle by an outside belt. His inspirations included Sonia Delaunay, Patou and Chanel in the 1920s and contemporary culture. Capacious summer linen trousers and skirts were often matched with cotton sweaters or blouses. Sweaters were a staple for Ellis throughout the year. Winter wools were luxurious and, like all the clothes, cuddly and easy to wear. Ellis began in fashion sales; his design was conceptual and often devoted to stories or ideas that readily translated to the consumer: the winter 1985 sweaters seized unicorns, decorative foliage and sleek greyhounds from medieval tapestry, and his slouchy looks of the 1980s were exaggerated to create the look of a picturesque hobo. 

Also look up for Delaunay, Jackson, Jacobs, Patou