Ebury to publish 'inspiring memoir' from fashion designer Jenny Packham

Ebury Press has acquired the first book by fashion designer Jenny Packham - a meditation on the power of clothes and why we love them titled How to Make a Dress.

Described as both "a passionate exploration of the art of getting dressed" and "a creative and inspiring memoir of the author’s years designing show-stopping pieces for some of the world’s most famous women", the book was acquired directly from the author, with commissioning editor Robyn Drury buying world rights.

Drury said: "When we think of stunning dresses – clothes that make women feel their best on the most important days of their lives – we think of Jenny Packham. She designs beautiful clothes, and what a delight it has been to discover that she writes just as beautifully. Her book is of course a fascinating insight into the art of designing, but it is also a brilliant investigation into the psychology of style – the reasons why we dress the way we do, and what we hope our clothes convey to the world. It’s such an exciting book and we can’t wait to publish it."

Packham, whose designs have been worn by women including Taylor Swift, Dita Von Teese, Adele and The Duchess of Cambridge, said: "Like many women my clothes reflect my energy, my aspirations and my reality. What we wear can change our lives and the lives of others. Through my creative life of designing I have had the privilege to create styles that become part of the fibre of other women’s lives. This book will be a personal and honest exploration of the creative process from the birth of an idea to the red carpet and beyond. It is a great honour to be working with Ebury Press."

Ebury Press will publish in hardback and e-book in spring 2020.