Friday, July 27, 2012

Music and fashion (10) - Miles Davis

During the rationing times in Britain, when tailors weren't allowed to add turn-ups to the trousers and skirts were not permitted beyond certain length to save on material, some tailors were making the impossible to add their mark to the garments by including velvet edges to jackets and creating tight trousers.
Others focused on the American film industry and imported the double-breasted suits, wide lapels and coloured shirts attracting modern jazz musicians and rock stars.
Different phenomena were occurring in the music and fashion industries during the 40's and 50's. 
Considered one of the most influential musicians of the 20th century and one of the key figures in jazz history, with Kind of Blue regarded as US national treasure, Miles Davis not only commenced a revolution in jazz but also led changes in fashion.
Davis was a "fashion animal" showing a rebellious streak by wearing loafers and moving from the traditional Ivy League style to slim Italian suits (in part to do with upward mobility).
Called the Prince of darkness due to his whispering voice, damaged after having larynx surgery, Miles Davis pushed boundaries by becoming artistically prolific when critic would not support him and adding a veneer of respectability with his clothes.
The Italian suit would be later incorporated by the mod movement and one of the best British bands ever.
But that's another story.
Til then, a little bit of improvisation












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