THE TRENDSETTER

‘On the Fringe: A Life in Decorating’ by Imogen Taylor (The Pimpernel Press, £50)

Imogen Taylor joined famed decorating firm Colefax and Fowler in 1949 and was for many years the trusted assistant of its co-founder John Fowler. When he retired in 1971, he passed onto her his prestigious client list, which included HM The Queen, duchesses, film stars and courtesans. Published to celebrate Taylor’s 90th birthday, this book recounts her colourful career creating English country house style: readers will learn the secrets of fabric walling and trompe l’oeil painting, plus how passementerie was made for Buckingham Palace.