The Day Of The Peacock – Style For Men 1963-1973 – First Edition – New Copy In Shrinkwrap

The Day Of The Peacock Style For Men 1963-1973 – First Edition – New Copy In Shrinkwrap

Author: Geoffrey Aquilina Ross
Price: £24
Publisher: V&A
Publication Date: 2011
Format: Original cloth. Dustwrapper
Condition: New
Pages: 144
Edition: First edition

Location: OSR: 002635

First edition. Illustrated throughout. A new copy in dustwrapper in original shrinkwrap.

The Day Of The Peacock – Style For Men 1963-1973: A Short Review

The Day of the Peacock: Style for Men, 1963–1973 by Geoffrey Aquilina Ross explores the transformative decade of men’s fashion during the 1960s and early 1970s. This book chronicles a period when traditional tailoring gave way to bold experimentation, reflecting broader societal shifts and the rise of youth culture. Here’s a detailed summary:

Overview

The book offers a richly detailed exploration of men’s fashion from 1963 to 1973, a decade characterised by rebellion against convention. It charts how the Peacock Revolution in men’s clothing coincided with social, cultural, and political upheaval, particularly in Britain. Through vivid descriptions and images, Aquilina Ross captures the essence of this era when men embraced flamboyance, creativity, and individuality in their attire.

Themes and Topics

1. Origins of the Peacock Revolution
   Aquilina Ross begins by contextualising the origins of this sartorial shift, explaining how the rigid formality of post-war menswear gave way to playful, colourful, and daring styles. The revolution was influenced by the Swinging Sixties, a period of liberation in music, art, and lifestyle.
2. Key Figures and Influences
   The book examines influential designers and cultural icons who defined the era. Notable figures include:
   • Michael Fish, who pioneered flamboyant shirts and the “kipper tie.”
   • Tommy Nutter, celebrated for blending Savile Row craftsmanship with avant-garde flair.
   • The Beatles and Mick Jagger, whose bold fashion choices set trends worldwide.
3. Style Evolution
   The narrative traces how men moved from conventional suits to more experimental looks:
   • Bright colours and floral patterns.
   • Velvet, silk, and other luxurious fabrics.
   • Wide collars, flared trousers, and platform shoes.
   • Accessories like cravats, chains, and oversized sunglasses.

   It also highlights the increasing popularity of boutique culture, with stores like Granny Takes a Trip and Mr Fish offering groundbreaking designs.

4. Cultural Context
   The book situates these fashion trends within broader societal changes:
   • The rise of youth culture and its rejection of older generations’ conservatism.
   • The influence of the sexual revolution and the growing visibility of LGBTQ+ identities.
   • The interplay between music, fashion, and rebellion, with rock stars leading the charge in redefining masculinity.
5. Decline of the Peacock Era
   By the mid-1970s, the book notes a retreat from flamboyance. The rise of punk and a return to minimalism signalled the end of this exuberant chapter. However, its legacy endures in the freedom it afforded men to express themselves through fashion.

Visual and Anecdotal Richness

Aquilina Ross enhances his narrative with:

• Photographs and illustrations, showcasing iconic outfits, advertisements, and magazine covers.
• First-hand anecdotes from designers, tailors, and fashion insiders who lived through the revolution.

Legacy of the Peacock Revolution

The book concludes by reflecting on how the era reshaped the way men approached clothing. It broke down long-standing taboos about colour and self-expression, paving the way for contemporary menswear’s diversity and creativity.

Conclusion

The Day of the Peacock is both a nostalgic look at a defining era in men’s fashion and a tribute to the trailblazers who dared to challenge tradition. Through meticulous research and an engaging narrative, Geoffrey Aquilina Ross provides an essential resource for understanding the intersection of style and culture during this revolutionary period.

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