The Mainbocher corset, Paris

1939

In 1931 Horst (b. Germany, 1906) began his photography career working for Vogue in Paris. Shortly thereafter he suceeded his friend and mentor, George Hoyningen-Huene, as head photographer of Vogue's Paris photo studios. It was during the 1930's that Horst established his trademark style. Using dramatic lighting and an unparalleled eye for grace, Horst created images that display his subjects as the epitome of elegance and grace. For example, Horst took a portrait of Coco Chanel, a woman who was rarely photographed, and created a striking composition of the designer integrating her regal profile and the exquisite chair. For sixty years, Horst photographed the world of high society with a style and class that is virtually unpracticed today.