Revisiting an Era: The Photography of Hans Feurer

by Melissa Alvarado Sierra

When you come across an image that strikes you, it’s probable that you preserve it in your memory bank for ages. A thought provoking picture has the power to inspire and convey emotions you have never felt before. Each time you see something that reminisces that image, you feel that way again. It happens with music, people, perfumes and… photography.

The following images speak volumes of an era: the eighties, full of excess and splendor. Back then, some photographers showcased powerful women complete with copious amounts of character. They wore the clothes, not the other way around.

Hans Feurer

It seems to me that many magazines these days have forgotten about the power of an impressive editorial, with healthy and strong models that come to life (contrary to some models today: bland with empty stares), and imposing stylists full of inventive ways of displaying fashion.

But there’s good news. The genius behind these photos is Hans Feurer and he still photographs with like minded people. Born in Switzerland in 1939, Hans Feurer started in London in the 1960s collaborating with numerous prestigious publications such as British Vogue, French Vogue and French Elle. He is “one of the few” who still envisions fashion as power for women. His pictures, decoding decadence and hunger for life, definitely make me feel that way. Enjoy.

US Vogue: July 1983

Stylist: Polly Allen Mellen

Hair: John Sahag

Makeup: Tyen of Paris

Cato Van Ee by Hans Feurer

Número Tokyo: September 2009

Images: The Fashion Spot forums