Remembering Antony Price: A Trailblazer in Fashion Design

Antony Price, the innovative British designer and theatrical image maker, has sadly passed away at the age of 80. Renowned for his unique fusion of music, theatre, and fashion, Price played a pivotal role in defining the glam rock aesthetic of Roxy Music and the yacht rock style seen in Duran Duran’s wardrobe a decade later. He also became a favorite designer for Queen Camilla, showcasing his timeless talents.

The Maverick Designer’s Career

Often referred to as “the greatest designer you’ve never heard of,” Antony Price’s career spanned over 55 years, during which he produced only six grand fashion shows. Notably, he returned to the London catwalk last month for the first time in 30 years, collaborating with the brand 16Arlington. This event featured headlines from Lily Allen, who showcased a striking black velvet “revenge dress.”

A Glamorous Legacy

In the 1970s, Price’s boutique in London’s World’s End became the epitome of glamour, standing out against other iconic fashion stores like Vivienne Westwood and Malcolm McLaren’s Sex. His creations were described by broadcaster Janet Street-Porter as “result-wear,” encapsulating a modern interpretation of corseted, hyper-sexy glamour that influenced a generation of musicians, turning them into celebrated style icons.

Early Inspirations and Iconic Collaborations

Born in Keighley, Yorkshire, Price moved to London in the early 1960s to study at the Royal College of Art. His foray into menswear began at Stirling Cooper on Wigmore Street, where he crafted Mick Jagger’s trousers for the Rolling Stones’ Gimme Shelter tour in 1969. His styling prowess extended to Roxy Music, where he designed all eight of their album covers, earning praise from Bryan Ferry as a “master craftsman.”

Fashion Evolution and Female Empowerment

Price’s remarkable ability to transition between menswear and womenswear set him apart in the fashion world. Collaborating with high-profile personalities such as Paula Yates, Kylie Minogue, and Jerry Hall, he even designed the wedding dress for Hall’s marriage to Mick Jagger. His designs often challenged societal norms, as he once remarked, “my clothes are men’s idea of what women should wear.”

Innovative Techniques and Later Work

In the 1970s, Price launched his own label, gaining recognition for his bespoke creations. During the 1990s, he earned the nickname “the frock surgeon” for his sophisticated technical skills in garment construction. His mastery of boning and corsets allowed him to create body-hugging gowns that merged traditional techniques with forward-thinking design. Not long after, he began crafting tailored pieces for Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall, as part of her wardrobe for her US tours.

A Visionary Remembered

Friends and collaborators remember Price as “a true visionary” who changed the landscape of fashion. Philip Treacy, a renowned milliner, expressed his sorrow on Instagram, stating, “Antony Price was not just a designer but a king in the world of fashion. His brilliance and technical ability were unmatched.” Price’s legacy as a champion of individuality and an encourager of young talent continues to resonate within the fashion community.

The British Fashion Council recognized him with the Evening Glamour Award in 1989, highlighting his originality and enduring influence. Price’s dedication to fostering creativity in London has inspired countless emerging designers, making him a true legend in the fashion industry.