Description: "One of the most original and influential people of the twentieth century to me and many others." --Alexander McQueenWith a career spanning thirty years in fashion, as an influential voice at Vogue, Tatler, and The Sunday Times Magazine--as well as a legacy as one of the industry's kingmakers for discovering Philip Treacy, Alexander McQueen, Sophie Dahl, and Hussein Chalayan--Isabella Blow had been a pillar of couture culture until her suicide in 2007 left the fashion world mourning one of its finest friends and patrons. Blow by Blow is a captivating journey through Issie's life, a one-of-a-kind look at her unforgettable impact on the fashion world, and a moving exploration of her inspiring and ultimately tragic tale.
Brief description:
Educated at Harrow School and the London School of Economics, Detmar Blow studied law and became a barrister in 1989. In 1998 he, Isabella, and Stuart Shave set up the gallery Modern Art, one of London's most successful contemporary art galleries. He and Isabella established Blow de la Barra gallery in 2005. Detmar divides his time among Lisbon, London, and Gloucestershire.
Review Quotes:
"One of the most original and influential people of the twentieth century to me and many others." - The late Alexander McQueen
"Over the years, whenever Issy would call me up to urge me to see someone new, I would do it because she thought it was important." - Anna Wintour, Editor-in-Chief, American Vogue
"You were a one off, a genius friend, your own creation in a world of copycats and I will miss you for the rest of my life." - Rupert Everett, in his eulogy at Isabella Blow's funeral
"She was original, impactful, generous-minded and spotted some of the greatest talents." - Geordie Greig, Editor of the Evening Standard and formerly editor of Tatler
"She was the most intelligent and creative person in fashion. In many ways she was the British queen of fashion. She was intoxicating. You could never get enough of her. She was a free spirit." - Philip Treacy
"A true fashion original, Blow was one of the industry's most eccentric and outrageous characters." - Daily Telegraph
"She discovered Sophie Dahl sobbing in a doorway; she bought Alexander McQueen's entire degree show, and had Philip Treacy design her wedding hat when she married Detmar Blow in 1988 - as well as being credited with discovering Hussein Chalayan and Stella Tennant." - Vogue
"Mourned the world over by an industry that has lost a Muse with whom there was never a dull moment." - Daily Mail
"A legend in her own lifetime." - Elle