Emilio Pucci The astonishing odyssey of a fashion icon

Emilio Pucci's unlikely role in aiding Allied forces during WWII is chronicled in this thrilling account from documentary producer Ward (Searching for Hassan) and Idanna Pucci, the Italian designer's niece. Pucci grew up in an aristocratic family and studied in the U.S. before serving as a fighter pilot in Egypt; he returned to Italy "violently hating the Fascist regime." In 1943, after Italian foreign minister Galeazzo Ciano was executed, his wife, Edda Ciano--a close friend of Pucci's--showed up on Pucci's doorstep, desperate for help smuggling her husband's diaries out of the country. The authors reconstruct in gripping detail how he successfully ferried Ciano's wife to the Swiss border with the diaries--which "destroy all illusions of a united Axis" by framing the Italians as "servants" of the Nazis--sewn into her clothes, before Pucci was captured by the Nazis. The diaries helped secure the conviction of Nazi foreign minister Joachim von Ribbentrop in the Nuremberg trials, though Pucci felt "betrayed" by an American press that exploited his story. While the book's momentum flags postwar, most notably in a concluding series of reflections by Idanna, the narrative is fast-paced and propulsive, drawing from the diaries and Pucci's accounts to bring the designer's surprising exploits to colorful life. This will captivate fashion fans and history buffs alike. (Feb.)

In this biography of Emilio Pucci (1914--92), Ward (Searching for Hassan) and Pucci (Emilio's niece and author of The World Odyssey of a Balinese Prince) illuminate the life of the Olympic athlete, politician, and pilot in Mussolini's air force during World War II who is, however, best remembered as a fashion designer. Pucci's iconic bold geometric designs printed on easy flowing fabrics were worn by Hollywood stars and fashionistas and continue to be popular. The synthetic stretch jersey he pioneered gave his designs movement with color and design inspired by Florentine aesthetics and the colors of Capri. Using diaries, personal interviews, and declassified war records, the book documents Pucci's early life and family, schooling, athletic pursuits, military service, and his little-known role in transporting diaries from Mussolini's son-in-law to the Allies. These vital documents would become evidence in the Nuremberg Trials and resulted in Pucci's capture and imprisonment by the Nazis. Discussion of Pucci's subsequent return to Italy, his recovery from the war, his political career, and the creation of his innovative and celebrated brand completes this biography. VERDICT This comprehensive look at a major fashion legend will be an excellent addition to fashion collections. Readers interested in Italian history and World War II accounts will also enjoy.--Jane Scott