For the book release in Stockholm, a giant version of the book was made. The event was visited by a number of prominent guests.
Lars Wallin is Sweden’s best-known fashion designer, and the country’s only true couturier. Royalties and pop singers alike proudly wear his creations, which are recognised by their elaborate detailing, exclusive materials and impeccable finish. After having created the Nobel Banquet gowns for Her Royal Majesty, the Crown Princess Victoria in 2000, 2003 and 2006, and for Princess Madeleine in 2008, he can even claim to be a Swedish Royal Court designer.
Celebrating 30 years as a designer, with many memorable moments throughout the years, Wallin felt that it was time to share his story. From the years of being bullied as a child to nearly dying from a stomach related disease in his early thirties, before making this name in the world of fashion – Avklädd (Undressed), tells the story of a designer of unwavering curiosity and a uncompromising dedication to quality. After having kept his private life private to let his garments speak for him throughout his career, this memoir allows the reader a rare glimpse of the man behind the dresses.
Having previously worked with Wallin on the design of the fashion house’s visual identity, Lundgren+Lindqvist was commissioned to design and produce the book. Working in close collaboration with Wallin, the publisher and the Editor, we oversaw and worked on all aspects of the book’s development. Apart from the more design oriented tasks, we also gave the book its title.
For the design of the book, we drew inspiration from Wallin’s own work, mixing historical and contemporary references. The typeface JJannon (Optimo), with its characteristic ligatures, is used to great effect throughout the book. In places, the text is interrupted by handwritten notes in pencil by Wallin, offering more spontaneous commentary on the recounted events. The pencil notes are printed in a silver pantone colour, which is also used for the pagination, the endpapers and in the duotone images, often appearing as contact sheets.
The book was published by A Book Affair in September 2020 and is available (in Swedish) from all major booksellers in Sweden.
