Tina Chow 1951-1992

One of my first-ever fashion idols, not surpassed thus far in thta kind of androgynous charm, grace, tragedy and refinement. One of the earliest collector of vintage couture, Chow's discerning eye is still regarded as the paradigm of collecting and connoisseurship. Chow knew intimately the great designers of her time, but demonstrated her scholarship by choosing works of Vionnet, Cristóbal Balenciaga and Christian Dior for her collection. Her initial interest was Mariano Fortuny, whose 'Delphos' dresses, capes and mantles harmoniously combined East and West. Her couture collection was auctioned off in 1993 by Christie's in New York.

Mrs Chow's daughter, China Chow, though is the embodiment of tacky. It must have been difficult with a mother like that.