Keith Ewart (1926–1989) was a prominent British photographer, cinematographer, and film studio owner, influential in shaping the visual style of the “Swinging Sixties.”
Ewart began his career as an acclaimed stills photographer, working for major publications like Vogue and Harper’s magazines, and was known for his legendary eye for detail and pursuit of perfection. He transitioned into the world of television commercials in the mid-1950s, becoming one of the most fashionable and in-demand directors of the era. Notably, he hired a young Ridley Scott to work as his art director on commercials during the 1960s. His studio produced famous campaigns for brands such as Camay, Maxwell House, and Benson & Hedges.
Ewart was also known for his varied personal interests: he was a brilliant jazz musician, held a private pilot’s license, and was a keen ornithologist with a particular passion for parrots. The Keith Ewart Charitable Trust remains committed to wildlife preservation and conservation.
These portraits by Keith Ewart capture the timeless grace and polished beauty of 1950s fashion, offering a glimpse into an era defined by elegance and charm.
Susan Abraham in Swiss voile blouse with stiff collar and fly-away cuffs, the cross-cut back gives a pouched effect, by Eric Hart, photo by Keith Ewart, Harper’s Bazaar UK, August 1951
Anne Gunning in dreamy dance dress of white piqué, the wide ruffle curls down from the halter neck to the hem of an enormous skirt by Frank Usher, photo by Keith Ewart, Harper’s Bazaar UK, June 1951
Anne Gunning in Grecian style dress of white lace flowers on mushroom-pink marquisette, a draped cross-over bodice, and full skirt gathered at the waist with narrow belt by Susan Small, photo by Keith Ewart, Harper’s Bazaar UK, July 1951
Anne Gunning wearing a delicately worked evening stole of black needle-run lace as light as gossamer from The White House, photo by Keith Ewart, Harper’s Bazaar UK, July 1951
Barbara Goalen in crisp white piqué dress, the skirt with rows of insertions, the tiny bolero hooks unto the bodice converting it to a day-dress by Atrima, photo by Keith Ewart, Harper’s Bazaar UK, June 1951
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