Transworld snaps up 'inspiring and vibrant' memoir from British designer Dame Zandra Rhodes

Transworld has snapped up “an insightful and vibrant” memoir from British designer, Dame Zandra Rhodes, co-written with Ella Alexander. 

Zoe Berville, senior commissioning editor in the non-fiction team, acquired world all-language rights to Iconic, My Life in Fashion in 50 Objects, from Carrie Kania at C&W Agency. Iconic publishes in hardback, e-book and audiobook on 18th July 2024. 

The synopsis says: “Having opened her first boutique in 1967 to such fanfare that it shut down the Fulham Road due to the throngs of people who attended – including Joe Cocker singing ‘With a Little Help from My Friends’ – Dame Zandra Rhodes has been a notorious figurehead of the UK fashion industry for over five decades. Working with everyone from Freddie Mercury to Princess Diana, Debbie Harry to Diana Ross, Zandra’s signature aesthetic continues to stand the test of time. In Iconic, she shares her story of a life spent celebrating creativity and individuality.” 

Rhodes said: “It has been incredible to work alongside Ella Alexander to create this special and personal memoir. Telling my story by revisiting objects which are integral to my life’s journey is what makes Iconic such a unique read. I hope it will inspire others to follow their hopes and dreams and live life to its fullest.” 

Editor Steph Duncan added: “Iconic gives a fascinating insight into Dame Zandra Rhodes’ life from 1960s London through ’70s and ’80s New York, Australia and India, right up to the present day. She describes her unique approach to design, her inspirations and her unflagging work ethic, as well as all the fun she had and the extraordinary people she met along the way, giving the reader a sense of being right there with her throughout her extraordinary life.”