As we discuss modern-day diversity in the fashion industry, I just want to pay a quick tribute to Mildred Blount (1907-1974). Mildred Blount was widely recognized as a leading milliner in the 1930's and 1940's. She made hats for many films, including all of Scarlett O'Hara's hats in Gone with the Wind, those worn by Margaret Sullivan in Back Street, and those worn by Marlene Dietrich in The Lady is Willing.
She designed hats for singers and actresses, such as Marian Anderson, Mary Pickford, Ginger Rogers and Rosalind Russell, among others. Blount also designed Gloria Vanderbilt's bridal veil for her first marriage in 1941.
Other Facts about Mildred Blount
- Born in North Carolina, but orphaned as an infant
- Attended Cooper Union in NYC, but did not complete her studies due to illness
- Designed 87 miniature hats, representing styles from 1680 to 1937 at the New York World's Fair in 1939, for which she received critical acclaim
- Julius Rosenwald Fellowship recipient
- World War II volunteer for four years with the Red Cross and Los Angeles USO
- Civil Rights: Fought for inclusion in Hollywood unions, which restricted membership to white artisans, and refused to enter through the back door of establishments when working at weddings, sets, or any business
ReplyDeleteWow! I have tow nieces who will love to read this as much as I did