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DANDEMONIUM

The Dandy Defined

THE BOOK

Dandemonium: The Dandy Defined

Journalist, author, and curator Robin Dutt spent over a decade crafting this elegant homage to Dandyism. Part social history, part aesthetic manifesto, the book charts a stylish course from Beau Brummell to David Sylvian.

With vivid portraits of Quentin Crisp, AA Gill, Pierre Cardin, and others, Dutt argues that while the wardrobe may have changed, the essence of the Dandy remains: detail-obsessed, socially subversive, and sartorially untouchable.

Lavishly illustrated and surprisingly moving, Dandemonium is a call to arms for men who still believe dressing well is a form of art.

Published by Kerseymere

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Observations and Comments
‘At once, scholarly and wickedly entertaining, this book is a must for curious minds and stylish coffee tables.’
— Juanita Coulson, The Lady Magazine
‘…A life’s work. It really is wonderful and I will enjoy reading it.’
— Brian Clivaz, Director, L’Escargot, Soho, London
‘This handsome collector’s edition book limited to 1,000 copies…is the culmination of more than a decade’s work…The author brings the notion of male sartorial finery right up to date.’
Times Online Luxury
DANDEMONIUM is definitive; meaning essential reading for anyone remotely interested in clothes as obsessive self-expression.
— Peter York, Journalist and author (The Official Sloane Ranger Diary, Dictator Style, A Dead Cat on Your Table)
‘If there is a more elegant and enlightening book, I have yet to find it.’
— Sam Taylor, Journalist and author (East of Islington)
‘This book is informative and in 12 chapters shares examples of prominent Dandies and the concept of Dandyism as a social and historical phenomenon… A long-awaited work of art. Congratulations, Robin.’
— Sarah Millar, CEO, Sister London
DANDEMONIUM is not just a literary endeavour; it’s a social, historical and literary journey that delves into the intriguing world of the Dandy.
Home House Magazine (25th Anniversary Edition)
‘As well as touching on the Dandy’s personality through clothes, the book explores the multifarious nature of sexual identity. Gender-fluid fashion is, after all, the preserve of many a public figure today.’
— Lucie Muir, Bond Street Journal
‘SHOW is proud to produce ‘DANDEMONIUM – The Dandy Defined’, a true labour of love on the part of its author, journalist Robin Dutt…in which he challenges some misconceptions (it isn’t all about peacockery)…and treats us to his own recollections of Dandies he’s met (which) includes Andy Warhol, Sir Hardy Amies, David Sylvian and AA Gill.’
SHOW Media London
‘My mentor and inspiration. Best wishes for the success of his new book, DANDEMONIUM. A true Dandy in a changing world.’
— Anthony Moss, author (The Visual History of Antique Walking Sticks and Canes)
‘Robin Dutt, author, journalist, bon viveur and expert on all things Savile Row introduces us to his book, DANDEMONIUM and why the person of the Dandy should always be considered and remembered and indeed, celebrated.’
Savile Row Style Magazine
‘In appearance, this book is a true Dandy with its voluptuous, purple-clothed exterior and its parade of iconic images. But it is more than a visual delight; here you will find fascinating scholarship, a stellar cast ranging from Beau Brummell to Quentin Crisp and Pierre Cardin and Boy George and some unexpected insights as to what constitutes a Dandy…Robin Dutt writes with style and panache, shaping his material with an intelligence that is as precise as a tailor’s blade.’
— Diane Pacitti, Poet (Dark Angelic Mills Canterbury Press)
‘Robin is without a doubt the most qualified chronicler of dandification. His personal style and delightful DANDEMONIUM book are informed not only through his thorough historical research but also his flamboyant flair. Robin is a beacon…illuminating all in his realm.’
— Guy Hills, Dashing Tweeds, Marylebone, London
‘I am honoured to have been asked to write this foreword. Robin hasn’t watered down his extravagant look one iota, testament to the Dandy cause. As such, he is perfectly qualified to expound upon this fascinating subject.’
— From the foreword to DANDEMONIUM by Dominic Lutyens (Journalist and author of ‘Celia Birtwell’, Quadrille; ‘Living with Mid-Century Collectibles’, Ryland Peters & Small; and ‘Perriand’, OH! Life/Design Monographs).