Has everyone seen today’s Google “doodle“?!?! It’s dedicated to (what would be) Edith Head’s 116th birthday!
In case you are not aware of who this incredible lady is/was, she was an Academy Award-winning (EIGHT of them, out of 35 nominations!) costume designer. Her career with Paramount Pictures lasted from the mid-1920s until 1967, when she moved to Universal, where she remained until 1981.
Over the span of her 60-year career in Hollywood, Head designed for THE most famous stars, including: Ginger Rogers, Bette Davis, Sophia Loren, Barbara Stanwyck, Shirley MacLaine,Anne Baxter, Grace Kelly, Audrey Hepburn, Elizabeth Taylor, and Natalie Wood.
She was often requested by certain actresses because of her straighforward approach, and her tendency to consult with them personally regarding the costumes. Her designs tended to be timeless, and not based on trends or fad fashion. This explains her continued work with Alfred Hitchcock, for whom she costumed multiple films.
There are so many blog posts, photos, sketches and so much information, I can’t possibly cover it all, however, I do want to emphasize the importance of a woman (behind the scenes) in Hollywood being one of the most influential fashion/costume designers in the world for over half a century. She was talented, intelligent, attuned to the needs and wants of the actors, and dedicated to creating beautiful pieces that were flattering and enduring.
Are you aware of this incredible lady’s lasting influence on fashion? What is your favorite of her design creations?? Any favorite snarky quotes, sewing patterns or films?
I particularly like her ‘ballsiness’ to apply for her job with Paramount using a fellow classmates sketches! Hahaha! Seeing her developed talent..there was no need to do that. She was an incredible designer! Great post Pouf!