Dream Suits

Examines the work of Ukranian-born Nudie Cohn - 'the Rodeo Tailor' - who revolutionised the clothing of Country and Western music Illustrates fascinating outfits, accessories and ephemeraOriginally a designer of highly embellished g-strings for New York strippers, Ukranian-born Nudie Cohn moved to Hollywood in 1947 and originated the rhinestone cowboy look that has become visual shorthand for Country & Western style. His fantastical, intricately embroidered and heavily ornamented outfits adorned the backs of numerous music and film stars, including Elvis Presley, Gram Parsons, Porter Wagoner, Dolly Parton, Roy Rogers, John Wayne, Elton John, Cher, John Lennon, Steve McQueen, Johnny Cash, and Bobbejaan Schoepen. Today his work is still sought after and admired. Contemporary musicians such as Bobby Gillespie from Primal Scream, Mike Mills from R.E.M. and Beck, fashion photographers such as Craig McDean and fashion designers from Tommy Hilfiger to Ralph Lauren have been inspired by his incredible designs.The pieces illustrated in the book have been drawn from the personal collection of iconic Belgian entertainer Bobbejaan Schoepen and his wife Josee. Bobbejaan Schoepen was a lifelong client and collector of Nudie Cohn designs. This resulted in a close friendship between the two men, and an exceptionally large and well-preserved collection of Nudie designs. This book celebrates both Nudie's very particular aesthetic as well as the relationship between these extraordinary men.