Photos By Gail
After working as a costume designer in theater and film during the early 1920s, Norman Norell (1900– 1972) seamlessly transitioned into clothing design as a designer for a wholesale manufacturer, but his career took a quantum leap in 1928 when he went to work for Hattie Carnegie, owner of one of the leading fashion houses in New York, and an elite purveyor of licensed copies of Parisian haute couture.
Continue reading Eye On Design: Candy-Striped Dress By Norman Norell for Hattie Carnegie →
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Photos By Gail
Norman Norell grew up wearing sailor suits, so it’s perhaps not surprising that this look was one of his favorites. He produced countless versions throughout his career. Norell’s nautical style dresses ranged from those with gigantic balloon sleeves and skirts crafted out of organza to slim, sleeveless shifts made from linen. No matter the shape, each one had the requisite bow and square, back-draped collar. Norell’s sailor bows were big, bold and made with stiff organza to keep them shipshape!
Photographed as Part of the Exhibit Norell: Dean of American Fashion, at the Museum at FIT.
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Photos By Gail
Unlike many 20th-century fashion designers, Norman Norell rarely sought inspiration from non-western or exotic cultures. Norell’s Obi dresses (circa 1965) were a rare exception. Named after the wide belt used to secure and ornament a Japanese Kimono, the wrap-style Obi Dresses were constructed with a built-in panel of fabric that encased the upper torso using a hook and eye closure.
Continue reading Eye On Design: Obi Kimono Style Wrap Dress By Norman Norell →
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All Photos By Gail
Aptly called the Mermaid, Norman Norell’s shimmering, sequin-covered evening gown is arguably his most recognizable creation. Like many designers, he was influenced by Hollywood costumes, especially those created during the Golden Age. In fact, Norell began his career working for both Brooks Costume Company and Paramount Pictures during the 1920s. It is not surprising that he was one of the most successful at incorporating silver screen glamour in his luxurious, ready-to-wear evening garments, especially his Mermaid gowns.
Continue reading Eye On Design: Norman Norell’s Mermaid Dresses →
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Photos By Gail
In 1960, Norman Norrell created one of his most daring and sensational innovations, the first culotte-skirted, wool flannel day suit. Soon thereafter, he debuted the culotte evening dress. Although it took years to gain widespread popularity, Norell responded to the fact that modern women were more mobile than ever and needed clothing to match their lifestyles.
Continue reading Eye On Design: Beaded Culottes Dress By Norman Norell →
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