John Bates – Jean Varon Vintage Clothing

John Bates one of Britain’s Youthquake designers of the 1960s and 70s, probably best know for the label Jean Varon which he was asked to join 1958. He designed some of the shortest mini skirt in the early 1960’s, trouser suits in 1962 and a stunning Bridal Catsuit 1964. Then in 1972 he formed his own Jean Varon label under this name, John Bates designed a black leather costumes for Diana Rigg in the role of Emma Peel in the British TV series the Avengers.

In 1973 after designing his famous backless evening dress he began to concentrate his work on evening wear. Since 1989 and the end of his Jean Varon label in the 80s John Bates has resided in Wales where he occasionally designs freelance.

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