
Best
known for his "Worst Dressed"
and "Fabulous Fashion Independents"
lists, Mr. Blackwell began his career in
fashion in 1958. His line, House of Blackwell,
would become synonymous with fashion.
An important designer during the 1960s,
he became the first in history to present
his line on a television broadcast as well
as the first to make his line available
for plus-size women. By the early 1960's
he had become one of the top designers,
creating fashions for such stars as Jayne
Mansfield, Dorothy Lamour, Peggy Lee, Ann
Blythe, Jane Russell and a favorite among
political wives such as Nancy Reagan and
Corretta Scott King.
In
addition to hosting his own popular radio
show on KABC in Los Angeles, Blackwell appeared
on virtually every talk show on television
with his “Worst Dressed List,” naming the
biggest fashion fiascoes of the year. Becoming
one of the most copied publications (in
both content and style) world-wide, the
lists are still a source of controversy,
amusement and conversation among the fashion
elite and the unlucky (or lucky) celebrities
who adorn it. Lynn Redgrave expressed it
best, when she stated "You haven't
made it in Hollywood until you've made 'the
list!'”
Mr.
Blackwell and his partner, R.L. Spencer,
produced a series of fashion related variety
programs which featured recognizable personalities
of the day. The programs were unique in
that all the clothing and accessories that
appeared on the shows, were available for
sale, making Mr. Blackwell and his vision
a predecessor to the QVC and Home Shopping
Networks of today.
Harlan
Boll is the exclusive representative of
all of Mr. Blackwell's "intellectual
property," and is the owner of all
of his copyrights and trademarks. For more
information, or to inquire about licensing
any of Mr. Blackwell's lists or creations,
please send an email to harlan@bhbpr.com
or call 626.296.3757.
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