Frederick Starke (1904–1988) was one of Britain’s most successful and influential wholesale couturiers of the mid-20th century. Born into a Jewish family with deep roots in the clothing trade, he established his own label, Frederick Starke Ltd., in 1933 and quickly rose to prominence after World War II.
Based in the prestigious Bruton Street in Mayfair, London, Starke became known for creating elegant, feminine, and impeccably tailored ready-to-wear garments that bridged the gap between haute couture and high-end ready-to-wear. His designs embodied the glamour of the 1950s and ’60s, featuring luxurious fabrics, flattering silhouettes, full skirts, and sophisticated cocktail dresses that appealed to both society women and celebrities.
A founding member of the Model House Group and later the Fashion House Group, Starke played a key role in elevating the standards and visibility of British wholesale couture. These exquisite photos capture the timeless elegance and impeccable craftsmanship of Frederick Starke’s designs, showcasing why he became one of Britain’s most respected couturiers of the post-war era.
Model in evening dress in the palest gold satin with a peplum by Frederick Starke, jewelry by cartier, the gloves are velvet, photo by Richard Dormer, Harper’s Bazaar UK, October 1950
June Duncan in long full-fronted evening coat of red grosgrain that surprisingly opens down the back by Frederick Starke, photo by Henry Clarke at the Royal Opera House, Covent Garden, Harper’s Bazaar UK, October 1950
Part of Pat O’Reilly’s very own trousseau, her going-away suit in mushroom pink with two fisher ties by Frederick Starke, violet parma hat by Erik, photo by Richard Dormer, Harper’s Bazaar UK, March 1950
Pat O’Reilly in high-neck dress with buttoned bodice in pin-check tweed in red, brown and white by Frederick Starke, fur from Bradleys, photo by Richard Dormer, Harper’s Bazaar UK, August 1950
Anne Gunning in box jacket of reversible wool in white on one side and yellow the other over black wool dress with diagonal draped V-neck by Frederick Starke, white straw hat by Otto Lucas, photo by Henry Clarke, Harper’s Bazaar UK, February 1951
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