Dress Up Leigh Bowery

A paper doll book featuring iconic looks from the legendary artist

$29.99

Step into the provocative, outrageous, and boundary-shattering

This book is not yet published, but will be available from April 2025.

ISBN: 9781923239234 Category:

Nicola Rainbird

Description

Described by Boy George as ‘art on legs’ and painted multiple times by Lucien Freud, Bowery embraced performance, club culture and fashion design to create some of the most iconic looks and moments of the 80s and 90s. His influence is immeasurable and can be seen in the works of prominent artists and designers such as Lady Gaga, Alexander McQueen, Jeffrey Gibson, Anohni, Rick Owens, Gareth Pugh and Maison Margiela, as well as being celebrated on shows like Ru Paul’s Drag Race for bold and unapologetic self-expression.

This paper doll book features a press-out mannequin and ten of Leigh’s show-stopping ensembles, from his ‘Aunt Jemima’ green checkered two-piece and crash helmet, to the shiny PVC ‘Black Fetish’ suit.

Beautifully illustrated by Daniel Clarke and accompanied by words from his widow and artistic partner, Nicola Rainbird, who offers personal insight into each look, this book is an officially endorsed title from the Estate of Leigh Bowery that celebrates the artist’s wild, maximalist, and unforgettable contributions to the fashion world and beyond.

Additional information

Weight 300 g
Publisher name Smith Street Books
Publication date 29 April 2025
Number of pages 48
Format Paperback / softback
Contributors Illustrated by Daniel Clarke
Dimensions N/A
Weight 300 g

Nicola Rainbird is the widow and artistic partner of Leigh Bowery and the Owner and Director of the Leigh Bowery Estate.

Daniel Clarke is an art director and illustrator based in Cape Town, South Africa.