For this project we were asked to choose a staple fashion designer to write an engaging, creative article (in 375-words or less) highlighting the designer’s talents, style/vision and legacy for publication in a fashion magazine. I chose to write on the illustrious and unconventional career of Mary Quant that changed the face of fashion forever.
“Marveling Mary, From Quaint to Quant!”
by Monica Elyse Herring
Publication: Vanity Fair
“The fashionable woman is sexy, witty and dry-cleaned.” —Mary Quant
Although it’s debatable who actually invented the miniskirt, self-taught fashion designer, Mary Quant, is absolutely responsible for pioneering the fad… unleashing what became a fashion revolution on the ‘60s British high street.
The “Swinging Sixties” was a dynamic generation full of energy and nonconformity. The pace of the world was quickening, and fresh influences were flourishing. Quant played an instrumental role in the legendary “Mod Movement” not only through style, but fashioning newly-liberated, Sixties women.
Labeled the ‘High Priestess of Sixties Fashion, Quant’s designs were nothing if not bold: synonymous with her joie de vivre. Simple, striking and modern, Quant channeled her livelihood into her designs, using brilliant colors, straightforward silhouettes and trailblazing designs.
Quant’s contributions to the fashion world included much more than the “mini” rebellion, also introducing hot pants, skinny rib sweaters and even waterproof mascara (a fad befitting of one of her greatest fans, supermodel Twiggy, and the unofficial face of the miniskirt). Mary Quant was not only renowned for her designs, but her own noteworthy style. Friend and hair-stylist Vidal Sassoon shaped and commercialized the five-point bob… just for Mary Quant.
Still, it wasn’t all sugar and spice for Quant, who’s tightly woven, leg-bearing fashions, were held to an outraged public due to the amount of skin on display. It’s said that Chanel labeled the miniskirt as “just awful”.
Still, in the face of criticism, Quant stood her ground and transformed the face of fashion forever.
“Quant was the most exciting designer for our generation a huge change from the old school of couture, she designed for the young, short skirts, geometric designs for the ‘60s generation full of energy and freedom from the past.” —Pattie Boyd (Model, and “it” girl)
STYLE, SITED. 
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