JOHN Bates started the Jean Varon label in 1960 — and it is possibly one of the greatest labels of the 1960s and 1970s.

He decided to call the brand Jean Varon because at the time an English name like John Bates was not elegant enough.

To get that recognition, he felt a French name was the best option and Jean Varon made a good graphic image.

Mr Bates’ designs were innovative, with the use of space-age fabrics, see-through panels, cut-out holes and matching tights. He also used precision cutting with lace and mesh to create some gorgeous effects.

After winning Dress of the Year in 1965, he received the ultimate commission — designing a wardrobe for the first Emma Peel season of The Avengers.

His bold motifs, mini-skirts, sleek trousers and feminine evening wear injected glamour and youth into the popular character.

Contrary to popular belief, Mr Bates only designed for half a season and took no further part in The Avengers, although it is that job that he continues to be most famous for.

His designs were also manufactured for sale across the country, the first time that a woman could watch a television character one evening and own the amazing clothes by the next.

By the 1970s, Mr Bates continued to innovate but the garments moved towards a softer and more feminine look. Around this time, he also designed for a more avant garde own-name label.

But by the early 1980s his own label fell into bankruptcy and he decided to leave the mainstream fashion world.

Another designer, Tom Bowker, carried the Varon label through the 1980s — but the 1960s and 1970s Jean Varon pieces still remain the most collectable and certainly my personal favourite.

You can find beautiful Jean Varon vintage clothing as well as many other brands at My Vintage, Darwen, or on our website myvintage.co.uk.