Robert Ossant

Author and fashion historian Robert Ossant hails from Lancashire and moved to London, getting his big break in National newspapers. After a few years, he switched lanes and joined London embroidery house Hand & Lock as their communications manager. It was at the historic atelier that he became close friends with co-author Jessica Jane Pile and developed his love and passion for embroidery.

Inspired by the designers, artisans, makers and artists he met, Ossant enrolled at night school and completed a Master’s in the History of Art. Equipped with cultural studies insights and academic frameworks, he applied the tools of art analysis and interpretation to all areas of the fashion industry. From haute couture catwalk show analysis to researching Queen Victoria’s wardrobe, his interests and expertise span both contemporary and historical style.

Now based in France, his freelance work has appeared in Vogue, Marie Claire, Selvedge, The Independent, Forbes and Newsweek, and he has worked with international fashion brands including McQueen, Saint Laurent, Gucci and Balenciaga. He has also spoken on the BBC, at the World Embroidery Conference, the Chelsea Flower Show and the National Gallery.

Whether researching, writing or talking about embroidery, he brings personality, humour and intellectual rigour - making an often-overlooked artistic expression feel vivid, relevant and alive.