BILL BLASS Black and white publicity photograph of a mature Bill Blass, right hand to the side of his face Photograph signed: "Bill Blass". B/w, 8x10. Bill Blass (1922-2002) sold his first evening-gown for $25.00 at age15 and began his fashion career in 1946 after returning from service in the US Army. In1970, 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. Over the next decades, he expanded the company to include men's suits, all 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 and 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. Light surface crease (not evident head on). Fine condition. - Please contact us if you have any questions or require additional information. HFSID 184575

• Date First Available ‏ : ‎ March 29, 2014