American Fashion Designers Paper Dolls

At the beginning of the twentieth century, Paris and London were the centers of the fashion industry, whereas American designers were regarded as mere "dressmakers." With the arrival of stylists such as Lucile (Lady Duff Gordon), who successfully designed for Hollywood's film industry, and Vera Maxwell, who offered elegant clothes for the working woman, American creativity came to the forefront. By mid-century, the United States dominated world fashion with its panorama of "name" designers. Noteworthy styles of the twentieth century featured in Tom Tierney's paper doll collection include Carl Jantzen's innovative elasticized swimsuit, Nettie Rosenstein's "little black dress," Anne Klein's modern separates, Halston's "rich uniform," Calvin Klein's hugely successful sportswear, Ralph Lauren's classic American elegance, and Donna Karan's sensuous styles for the businesswoman. Two dolls, with a stunning wardrobe of casual clothes, cocktail dresses, and elegant evening gowns, model the creations of 32 American designers of the twentieth century, among them Mainbocher, Adele Simpson, Oscar de la Renta, Normal Norell, Pauline Trigère, Adolfo, Bill Blass, Geoffry Beene, Carolina Herrera, Isaac Mizrahi, and Vera Wang. A delight for paper doll lovers of all ages, this attractive book will also appeal to collectors and students of fashion and costume design.