Jim Dandy by Norma Lu Meehan, 2014

This is the back cover of a limited edition paper doll book that Norma Lu Meehan created in 2014 as a tribute to her dear friend. Jim died April 21 at the age of 93, another great loss in the paper doll community. I have many of Jim's Couture paper doll books, beautifully rendered high fashion, illuminated in that special way he had of evoking light in his compositions. 

"Jim Dandy" was limited to 250 copies, but some copies may still be available at Paperdoll Review.

Here's a video of Jim talking about his life and career as a fashion illustrator.

 

Fashion Originals by Jim Howard, Vol. 2: Japan and Africa

Jim Howard's books are personal favorites. I love his line and shading, the way he can make a face absolutely luminous...

You can order this book at paperdollreview.com

Fashion Originals by Jim Howard, Vol 2, Japan and Africa.....$12
by Jim Howard

The fashion world missed out on a great designer when young Jim Howard chose illustration as his career. He became famously successful, but always wanted to design as well as illustrate. Now he gets his chance to create "Jim Howard's Fashion Originals" for paper dolls.

His second book, with 22 original designs, is inspired by two exotic cultures, Japan and Africa, each represented by a glamorous ethnic doll. From Africa come chic high fashions based on native dress, on prints, patterns and materials including animal prints and primitive arts and crafts. From Japan come elegantly refined creations inspired by ancient artifacts, graceful kimonos and delicate paintings.

Jim's talent as an illustrator turns every page of this new book into a work of art from one of the most accomplished fashion artists of our time... and now, also a designer of original fashions for paper dolls.