Napkin dress

Vivien Solari, Hussein Chalayan S/S 1999

When the heroes of our article can’t find a piece of clothing they need in a shop, they make it themselves. And their talent goes far beyond sewing: they know how to make a fashion masterpiece practically out of nothing. Bed sheets, tablecloths, dinner napkins, and even sleeping bags — anything can become material for their stunning handmade designs.

Norman Norell, whose New York-based career spanned 1922 to 1972, was one of the foremost American designers of the 20th century. He designed this silk faille evening gown in 1965.…