For just over 20 years John Bates dominated the British fashion scene with a unique brand of style, combining innovation with a slick marketing and distribution network which meant that no other designer had such a comprehensive influence on what the UK wore.
At every level, from shop girl to pop star, debutante and banker's wife, his label Jean Varon had a must-have dress for any party; short or long, empire line or mini. He gave fashion-conscious women the chance to wear dresses featured ex...