BILL BLASS A signed color publicity photograph of the fashion designer sitting in a chair-wearing a dark jacket and blue plaid shirt Photograph Signed: "Bill Blass". 8x10. Color. Bill Blass (1922-2002) sold his first evening-gown for $25.00 at age 15 and began his fashion career in 1946 after returning from service in the US Army. In 1970, after years of success as a designer, he purchased New York based Maurice Rentner Ltd. (which he had joined in 1959) and renamed it Bill Blass Ltd. He gradually expanded the company to include men's suits, women's fashions, furniture, luggage, accessories, and more. By 1998, Bill Blass Ltd. had more than a $700 million in sales. Among the award-winning designer's clients were First Ladies Jacqueline Kennedy, Nancy Reagan, and Barbara Bush, as well as entertainer Barbra Streisand. Bill Blass was awarded the Fashion Institute of Technology Lifetime Achievement Award in 1999, remaining a creative force after selling his firm the same year. He retired after unveiling his 2000 Spring/Summer line. Corners lightly creased. Ink note (unknown hand) on verso (no show through). Otherwise, fine condition. - Please contact us if you have any questions or require additional information. HFSID 210867

• Date First Available ‏ : ‎ January 6, 2017