Meaning: The quote by Bill Blass, a renowned American fashion designer, reflects his fascination with glamour and the depiction of women in a particular lifestyle. Blass was known for his elegant and sophisticated designs, and his words offer insight into the inspiration behind his work and the cultural influences that shaped his vision.

The quote suggests that Blass was drawn to the allure of glamour, which is often associated with a sense of luxury, sophistication, and beauty. The mention of schoolbooks with drawings of women on terraces with a cocktail and a cigarette evokes an image of a glamorous, high-society lifestyle that was often romanticized in popular culture during Blass's formative years.

During the mid-20th century, when Blass was coming of age, there was a pervasive fascination with the idea of glamour and its association with wealth, leisure, and a certain kind of cosmopolitan sophistication. This era, often referred to as the "Golden Age of Hollywood," saw the rise of iconic movie stars and fashion icons whose glamorous lifestyles captured the imagination of people around the world.

The imagery of women on terraces with cocktails and cigarettes speaks to a specific kind of glamour that was prevalent in fashion, film, and advertising during that time. It conjures visions of opulent social gatherings, luxurious resorts, and the kind of effortless elegance that Blass would later incorporate into his designs.

Blass's interest in this particular brand of glamour likely influenced his creative work as a fashion designer. His designs often exuded a sense of refined luxury, with an emphasis on clean lines, impeccable tailoring, and timeless sophistication. Through his creations, Blass sought to capture and perpetuate the essence of glamour that had captivated him since his youth.

Furthermore, the quote provides a glimpse into the cultural and social context in which Blass developed his aesthetic sensibilities. The idealized images of women with cocktails and cigarettes in hand were emblematic of a certain lifestyle associated with privilege and leisure. This representation of glamour was not only a reflection of fashion and style but also a reflection of societal values and aspirations.

In retrospect, Blass's quote can be seen as a reflection of the evolving role of women in society during the mid-20th century. The depiction of women in glamorous settings, enjoying the trappings of luxury and leisure, was part of a broader cultural narrative that both reflected and perpetuated traditional gender roles and notions of femininity. This idealized imagery, while visually captivating, also carried with it underlying messages about societal expectations and gender dynamics.

In conclusion, Bill Blass's quote encapsulates his fascination with a particular brand of glamour that captivated him from a young age. It speaks to the influence of cultural imagery and societal values on his perception of beauty and elegance. Moreover, it offers a window into the cultural milieu of the mid-20th century, where notions of glamour and luxury were intertwined with broader narratives about femininity, class, and aspiration. Through his designs, Blass sought to channel and embody this sense of glamour, leaving an indelible mark on the world of fashion.