Zandra Rhodes: Auctioning a Fashion Legacy After Five Decades

Renowned British fashion designer Zandra Rhodes, who has remained a formidable figure in the fashion industry for over fifty years, is poised to auction a significant portion of her life's work on June 17, 2025. This auction, set to take place at Kerry Taylor Auctions in London, features 92 lots, including a highly anticipated chiffon dress from her iconic "India Revisited" collection worn by Diana, Princess of Wales, with a low estimate of £10,000. The decision to auction her extensive archive of 6,000 garments comes in the wake of Rhodes' diagnosis of terminal cancer in 2020, a revelation she kept largely to herself as she focused on preserving her legacy.

In a statement, Rhodes indicated that creating a foundation to oversee her archive was part of her efforts to ensure that her contributions to fashion would not only be preserved but also inspire future generations. "When Zandra had her diagnosis, we moved really fast," said Piers Atkinson, a long-time friend and the head of the newly established foundation. He elaborated on the process of cataloging the extensive collection, highlighting the diverse aesthetics that defined Rhodes' work across various eras, from punk influences in the 1970s to more angular designs in the 1980s.

The Zandra Rhodes archive, which has faced challenges, including a flood in her old storage unit in 1995, continues to thrive. Atkinson noted that the foundation's partnerships with institutions like De Montfort University, the University for the Creative Arts, and the Cooper Hewitt Smithsonian Design Museum are vital for the archive's future. Rhodes' work has also found its way into contemporary fashion, with pieces being used by celebrities such as Sarah Jessica Parker in the series "And Just Like That."

"I’d really love other people to use some of the old fabric," Rhodes stated, emphasizing her desire for modern designers to draw inspiration from her work rather than merely replicate it. As the auction approaches, the significance of Rhodes' legacy becomes increasingly apparent, with plans for further sales aimed at benefiting her foundation. The event marks not just a sale, but the beginning of a new chapter for Rhodes' artistic journey, ensuring that her vibrant and innovative approach to fashion endures beyond her lifetime.

As Rhodes prepares to part with a portion of her life’s work, many in the industry reflect on her contributions. Her style, characterized by bold colors and intricate prints, has influenced countless designers and continues to resonate within the fabric of modern fashion. The upcoming auction serves as both a celebration of her achievements and a poignant reminder of the impact one designer can have on the world of fashion. In a statement reflecting her career, Rhodes remarked, "These are wearable dreams," encapsulating her belief in the transformative power of fashion.

The auction on June 17, featuring pieces that span decades, is not only a personal milestone for Rhodes but also a significant event in the fashion calendar. It invites enthusiasts and collectors alike to engage with a legacy that has shaped the industry in profound ways. As the world awaits the auction, the question remains: what will the future hold for the Zandra Rhodes archive, and how will it continue to inspire the next generation of designers?