Groundbreaking Fashion by Jane Rocca, illustrated by Juliet Sulejmani. Image writer’s own.
We love fashion illustration around these parts. As well as scouting out adorable prints to display on our walls, we love having books to look at on our coffee-table containing illustrations and musings about the gowns, shoes and iconic pieces we love. Groundbreaking Fashion by Jane Rocca, illustrated by Juliet Sulejmani contains one hundred fashion pieces, legends and moments as well as some short insights around them. It is an exquisite book to look at and an absolute must-have for any fashion fan. We consider ourselves experts yet we were surprised to find some details and anecdotes about items that we hadn’t considered before.
We were lucky to speak to the lovely Juliet Sulejmani illustrator of this beautiful book and creator of some rather inspirational, dreamy Instagram accounts. We love watching her Instagram stories on her account @thejulietreport in particular to see her illustrations go from sketch to full-colour masterpiece. Keep reading if you want to find out more about her work and Groundbreaking Fashion.
How did your work on Groundbreaking Fashion come about? Did the publishers contact you or were you approached by Jane Rocca?
Jane Rocca actually reached out to me. We have a mutual friend who originally connected us and Jane had been following my work through Instagram. When the opportunity for Groundbreaking Fashion came up Jane emailed me and asked if I’d be interested and of course I said yes.
Which illustration from the book is your favourite?
It’s so hard to choose, but I’d say the most fun to draw was Lady Gaga in the meat dress, and my most favourite would be my portrait of the late Sonia Rykiel.
Illustration from Juliet’s blog.
If you had your own book, what would it be about?
Wouldn’t that be fun. I would love to have a book about the character I draw ‘Girl’. It’d be something like “Girl’s Guide to Life”, and would include tips on, fashion, etiquette, travel etc.
Where do you find your inspiration for your stunning drawings?
Where don’t I find inspiration is probably the question! From all over the place, mostly pop culture and the world around me.
What in your opinion is a groundbreaking moment from fashion history?
All of the 100 moments in the book. Any look, or fashion item that inspires people, that inspires change or a new way of looking at fashion.
Finally, what is a staple item in your wardrobe?
My Play x Converse All Star ’70 Lows. I’m never not wearing them.
Illustration from Juliet’s blog.
Groundbreaking Fashion, $35.99 is published by Smith Street Books and is available now from all leading booksellers.
You can follow Juliet Sulejmani on Instagram; @thejulietreport, @julietsulejmani and at her website.
Sophie Putze also writes at Nana Wintour.