Mary Quant

Mary Quant is a Welsh fashion designer and British fashion icon. She was the creator of the mini skirt and hot pants during the 60's changing fashion forever.

Mary Quant:

''When asked in a school exam which side I’d take in the battle between the Roundheads and Cavaliers, I compared their underwear, dress fabrics, colours, accessories, hairstyles, hats, make-up, toiletries and demeanour.
Naturally, I came down strongly on the side of the chic Cavaliers. This so stunned the schoolmaster that he gave me the highest marks ever awarded.''

Although Quant claims to have been drawn to the elegance and extravagance of the Cavaliers, her actual designs seem to be more inspired by the clothing of the Roundheads. Her simplistic creations mimic those of the parliamentarians, and the monochrome choice of colour has a clear influence from the puritans of the 17th century. 

Although the dress is very much shorter than the traditional puritan dress, the element of inspiration is still present. The black long sleeve close fitting dress with basic plain white collar is very similar to the dress shown below:
 

The alteration in skirt length brought the dress up to date with fashion, giving it an instant contemporary twist, keeping it consistent with Quant's personal style.