FASHION

A Blueprint for Chic

Bill Blass’s portfolio is up for bid at Sotheby’s.

Bill Blass sketch

Even as a child, fashion designer Bill Blass dreamt up glamorous Hollywood gowns in the margins of his notebooks. And when these illustrations were brought to life—in diaphanous silks and smart prints—Blass helped to usher in an era of jet set elegance. At Sotheby’s upcoming New York-centric auction, bidders will have a chance to take home a piece of this fashionable legacy in the form of a rare portfolio of the late designer’s sketches. It’s an intimate glimpse into the creative mind of one of America’s great tastemakers.

The New York Sale is currently on view at Sotheby’s New York and goes up for bidding April 1st.

Photos: A Blueprint for Chic

Bill Blass sketch. Courtesy of the artist and Sotheby’s.

Bill Blass sketches. Courtesy of the artist and Sotheby’s.

Bill Blass sketch. Courtesy of the artist and Sotheby’s.

Bill Blass sketches. Courtesy of the artist and Sotheby’s.

Bill Blass sketches. Courtesy of the artist and Sotheby’s.

Bill Blass sketches. Courtesy of the artist and Sotheby’s.

Bill Blass sketch. Courtesy of the artist and Sotheby’s.

Bill Blass sketches. Courtesy of the artist and Sotheby’s.

Bill Blass sketch. Courtesy of the artist and Sotheby’s.

Bill Blass sketches. Courtesy of the artist and Sotheby’s.

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