take ivy pdf
Get the classic "Take Ivy" style guide in PDF format. Discover timeless fashion inspiration and lifestyle tips. Download now!
Take Ivy is a seminal photography book by Teruyoshi Hayashida, first published in 1965, capturing the iconic Ivy League fashion style through candid campus snapshots.
Historical Background of Ivy League Fashion
The Ivy League fashion style emerged in the 1950s and 1960s, rooted in traditional British and American country club attire. It emphasized clean-cut, tailored clothing, reflecting the elitism and exclusivity of Ivy League universities. The term “Ivy League Look” was popularized in 1954 by John Behrendt, an executive at J.Press, a prominent menswear brand. This style became synonymous with prep schools and universities, featuring classic elements like button-down shirts, blazers, and chino trousers. The Ivy League Look was not only a fashion trend but also a cultural symbol of academic and social status. Its influence extended beyond the U.S., inspiring global fashion movements, including Japan’s adoption of Ivy Style in the 1960s, as documented in Take Ivy.
Creation of ‘Take Ivy’
Take Ivy was created by Japanese photographer Teruyoshi Hayashida and writers Shosuke Ishizu, Toshiyuki Kurosu, and Hajime Hasegawa, capturing Ivy League students’ style in candid photos and commentary.
3.1. Inspiration Behind the Project
The inspiration for Take Ivy stemmed from the fascination of its creators with American Ivy League fashion. Japanese photographer Teruyoshi Hayashida and his collaborators were captivated by the preppy, sophisticated style of Ivy League students, which was deeply rooted in traditional American academia. They sought to document this unique aesthetic, blending classic tailoring, casual wear, and a sense of effortless elegance. The project aimed to not only capture the visual essence of Ivy Style but also to share it with a Japanese audience, inspiring a new wave of fashion enthusiasts. This cultural exchange was a driving force behind the book’s creation, making it a bridge between East and West in fashion.
3.2. Photographic Approach and Style
Teruyoshi Hayashida’s photographic approach in Take Ivy was characterized by candid, natural shots that captured the daily lives of Ivy League students. The black-and-white photographs were taken in an unposed, journalistic style, focusing on the spontaneity of campus activities such as studying, dining, and socializing. Hayashida’s lens emphasized the authenticity of the Ivy League aesthetic, showcasing the effortless elegance of the students’ attire. The images blended simplicity with a refined sense of composition, highlighting the intricate details of their clothing. This approach not only documented a specific cultural moment but also created a timeless visual narrative that continues to inspire fashion enthusiasts worldwide. The photographs remain a testament to Hayashida’s ability to immortalize a distinct sartorial era.
3.3. Contributors and Their Roles
The creation of Take Ivy involved a collaborative effort by several key individuals. Japanese photographer Teruyoshi Hayashida was the primary creative force, capturing the iconic images of Ivy League students. The textual commentary was provided by Shosuke Ishizu, Toshiyuki Kurosu, and Hajime (Paul) Hasegawa, who were renowned for their expertise in fashion and cultural analysis. Ishizu, a prominent figure in Japanese fashion, contributed insightful commentary, while Kurosu and Hasegawa added depth with their perspectives on American style. Their collective efforts ensured that the book not only documented the visual aspects of Ivy League fashion but also provided a nuanced understanding of its cultural significance. This collaboration between photographers and writers resulted in a comprehensive and enduring document of the Ivy League aesthetic.
Key Features of ‘Take Ivy’
Take Ivy showcases candid photographs by Teruyoshi Hayashida, capturing Ivy League students’ daily life and fashion. Textual commentary by Shosuke Ishizu, Toshiyuki Kurosu, and Hajime Hasegawa provides cultural context, making it a timeless fashion and historical document.
4.1. Photographic Content
Take Ivy features candid photographs by Teruyoshi Hayashida, capturing Ivy League students in their natural settings. The images showcase men dressed in tailored suits, button-down shirts, and classic footwear, epitomizing 1960s Ivy League style. Hayashida’s lens focuses on everyday activities—students studying, lounging, or biking across campus—highlighting their effortless elegance. The photos are unposed, offering an authentic glimpse into the lives of America’s elite youth. With a mix of black-and-white and color shots, the book’s visual narrative documents a bygone era of academic and sartorial refinement, making it a timeless resource for fashion enthusiasts and historians alike. The imagery has become iconic, influencing generations of designers and style aficionados worldwide.
4.2. Textual Commentary
The textual commentary in Take Ivy complements Hayashida’s photographs, offering insights into the Ivy League lifestyle. Written by Shosuke Ishizu, Toshiyuki Kurosu, and Hajime Hasegawa, the text details the cultural and sartorial nuances of the era. It provides context on the significance of specific garments, such as button-down shirts and blazers, and their role in defining Ivy League style. The commentary also delves into the broader cultural implications of this fashion movement, linking it to American academia and tradition. This blend of visual and textual narratives creates a comprehensive guide to the Ivy League aesthetic, making Take Ivy both a historical document and a stylistic manifesto. The commentary enriches the photographs, offering readers a deeper understanding of the era’s fashion and its enduring influence.
4.3. Cultural Significance
Take Ivy holds profound cultural significance as a bridge between American and Japanese fashion sensibilities. The book not only documented Ivy League style but also inspired a wave of American-influenced fashion in Japan. Its candid photographs and insightful commentary captured the essence of a bygone era, making it a timeless reference for fashion enthusiasts. The book’s influence extended beyond academia, shaping Japan’s understanding of Western fashion and contributing to the global popularity of Ivy League aesthetics. Today, it is celebrated as a cultural artifact, preserving the legacy of a distinct sartorial movement while continuing to inspire contemporary fashion. Its enduring appeal lies in its ability to transcend time, connecting past and present through its iconic imagery and commentary.
Influence of ‘Take Ivy’ on Fashion
Take Ivy revolutionized fashion by introducing Ivy League style to Japan, sparking a cultural shift. Its imagery inspired a wave of American-influenced fashion, becoming a global reference for trad enthusiasts.
5.1. Impact on Japanese Fashion
Take Ivy profoundly influenced Japanese fashion by introducing Ivy League style to a broader audience. The book’s candid photographs of American students showcased a refined, preppy aesthetic that resonated deeply with Japanese youth. It became a visual guide for adopting American-influenced fashion, particularly in Tokyo’s trendy districts like Ginza. The publication inspired Japanese magazines, such as Mens Club, to embrace Ivy-style motifs, leading to a cultural shift in men’s fashion. The book’s emphasis on quality, craftsmanship, and timeless design aligns with Japan’s appreciation for precision and detail, cementing its status as a foundational resource for trad fashion enthusiasts. Its impact remains evident in Japan’s fashion culture, even decades after its release.
5.2. Global Recognition and Appeal
Take Ivy has garnered global recognition as a definitive document of Ivy League style, transcending cultural boundaries. Its unique blend of candid photography and insightful commentary has made it a treasure for fashion enthusiasts worldwide. Described by The New York Times as a “treasure of fashion insiders,” the book’s influence extends beyond Japan, inspiring a global appreciation for classic American attire. Rare original copies are highly sought after by collectors, while reprints, such as the 2006 edition, have sold out rapidly. The book’s timeless appeal lies in its ability to capture a specific era of academic fashion, making it a benchmark for understanding the evolution of preppy and trad styles. Its global impact continues to resonate, solidifying its status as a seminal work in fashion history.
The Legacy of Teruyoshi Hayashida
Teruyoshi Hayashida, the visionary photographer behind Take Ivy, left an indelible mark on fashion history. Born in Tokyo in 1930, Hayashida’s work captured the essence of Ivy League style, inspiring generations of fashion enthusiasts. His meticulous eye for detail and ability to immortalize the elegance of American academia earned him global acclaim. Beyond Take Ivy, Hayashida contributed to numerous fashion projects, solidifying his reputation as a master photographer. His legacy endures through the timeless appeal of his work, which continues to influence contemporary fashion. Rare copies of Take Ivy remain highly sought after, celebrating Hayashida’s enduring impact on the world of fashion and photography. His passing in 2013 only underscored the lasting significance of his contributions.
Cultural and Historical Significance
Take Ivy holds profound cultural and historical significance as a visual archive of 1960s Ivy League fashion, capturing the essence of American academia and its sartorial elegance. The book not only documented a pivotal moment in fashion history but also bridged cultural gaps by introducing American Ivy Style to Japan, influencing its fashion landscape. Its candid photographs of university life, showcasing meticulously dressed students, became a timeless reference for classic American fashion. Take Ivy is celebrated globally for its ability to transcend eras, offering insights into the evolution of fashion and lifestyle. Its enduring appeal lies in its authenticity and the nostalgia it evokes, making it a cherished collector’s item and a vital resource for fashion historians and enthusiasts alike.
Reprint Editions and Availability
Take Ivy was originally published in 1965 and gained cult status, leading to a highly sought-after reprint in 2006, which quickly sold out. Subsequent reprints have made the book more accessible to global audiences. Its rarity and demand have driven its popularity, with original copies becoming collector’s items. The book is now available in various formats, including digital versions, allowing a new generation to explore its timeless style. The 2006 reprint and later editions have ensured that Take Ivy remains a cherished resource for fashion enthusiasts and historians. Its availability in both physical and digital formats has cemented its legacy, making it accessible to a global audience while preserving its cultural significance.
Why ‘Take Ivy’ is a Collector’s Item
Take Ivy has become a highly sought-after collector’s item due to its historical significance and timeless appeal. Originally published in 1965, the book is a rare document of Ivy League fashion, making original copies highly valuable. The 2006 reprint, though more accessible, also became a collector’s treasure as it quickly sold out. The book’s cultural impact, combined with its limited availability, has driven its desirability among fashion enthusiasts and historians. Its detailed commentary and iconic photographs make it a comprehensive resource, elevating it beyond a mere photo book. Today, Take Ivy is cherished for its ability to bridge past and present, inspiring modern fashion while preserving a pivotal moment in style history.
The Book’s Enduring Legacy
Take Ivy holds a lasting impact on fashion culture, preserving the essence of Ivy League style for future generations. Its candid photographs and insightful commentary have made it a cornerstone of fashion history, inspiring designers and enthusiasts worldwide. The book’s ability to capture a distinct moment in American academic life has cemented its status as a timeless resource. Despite being published over five decades ago, Take Ivy continues to influence contemporary fashion, proving its relevance in modern times. Its legacy is not only in its content but also in its role as a cultural bridge, connecting Japanese and American fashion sensibilities. Today, it remains a cherished document of sartorial elegance and historical significance.
Relevance in Modern Fashion
Take Ivy remains a vital inspiration in modern fashion, with its timeless depictions of Ivy League style continuing to influence contemporary designers and enthusiasts. The book’s emphasis on classic American tailoring, such as button-down shirts, blazers, and chinos, resonates with today’s preppy and minimalist trends. Designers often reference its imagery to craft collections that blend tradition with modern aesthetics. Additionally, the rise of sustainable fashion aligns with the book’s celebration of quality and longevity in clothing. Take Ivy serves as a bridge between past and present, proving that classic style never fades. Its influence is evident in brands and individuals embracing the elegance and simplicity of Ivy League fashion, ensuring its relevance in the ever-evolving world of fashion.
Take Ivy is a landmark publication that has left an indelible mark on fashion history. Its meticulous documentation of Ivy League style continues to inspire modern fashion, blending timeless elegance with casual refinement. Teruyoshi Hayashida’s photographs and the accompanying commentary have not only preserved a distinct era of American academic fashion but also influenced global trends. The book’s reprints and enduring popularity underscore its status as a cultural and sartorial treasure. For fashion enthusiasts, designers, and collectors, Take Ivy remains an essential resource, bridging the past and present. Its legacy endures as a celebration of classic style, making it a must-have for anyone fascinated by the evolution of fashion and the iconic Ivy League aesthetic.