André Leon Talley: Grand Gestures

A visual celebration of André Leon Talley’s life that centers his personal style as a lens on his contributions to fashion history.

This lavish volume reflects on the life of André Leon Talley and his impactful ascent to the height of global fashion. Many of Talley’s most iconic looks--from his suits and straw Breton boater in Paris of the late seventies to the opulent custom capes and coats he made famous--are newly photographed and presented alongside archival imagery.

From his days as Diana Vreeland’s apprentice at the Metropolitan Museum of Art, to Andy Warhol’s Factory and Interview Magazine, to Paris bureau chief for Women’s Wear Daily, to positions at W, The New York Times, Ebony, and Vogue, where he served as the magazine’s first African American creative director, Talley’s exuberant personality and voice guided thousands through the glamorous world of high fashion.

Essays, stories, and memories from industry luminaries who experienced his singular character reflect on a legacy in fashion spanning more than four decades. A posthumous commemoration of Talley, this celebratory volume offers a rare view into his world, the people who shared it, and the creation of one of the most iconic figures in fashion history.

Paula Wallace is president and founder of SCAD and Talley’s longtime friend. Rafael Gomes is exhibition curator and creative director of SCAD FASH museums. Antoine Gregory is creative director, stylist, and founder and editor in chief of Black Fashion Fair.