Deco dandy contests the supposedly exclusive feminine aspect of the
style moderne (art deco) by exploring how alternative, parallel and
overlapping experiences of decorative modernism, nationalism, gender and
sexuality in the years surrounding World War I converge in the protean
figure of the 'deco dandy'. The book suggests a broader view of art deco
by claiming a greater place for the male body, masculinity and the dandy
in this history than has been given to date. Important and productive
moments in the history of the cultural life of Paris presented in the
book provide insights into the changing role performed by consumerism,
masculinity, design history and national identity.