Carolyn Schnurer (1908 - 1998) born and raised in NY. She taught art and music before turning to sportswear design in 1940. She taught at New York University and the Fashion Institute of Technology and was instrumental in changing women's fashions in
beachwear and sportswear, designing complete outfits, and adapting the
two-piece bathing suit for the United States market. For these
innovations her designs appeared in the pages of ''Vogue'', ''Harper's
Bazaar'' and ''Life'' magazines, as well as on the covers. The Awards
presented to her from Coty, The Cotton Council, International
Sportswear, Miami Sportswear, and Boston Sportswear were among other
special recognitions for her achievements.
I happened to go to the High Style Exhibit at the San Francisco legion of Honor last week and saw these two pieces from her. The bathing suit is dated 1950 and the dress I believe said 1953. Regardless, they are both stunning and from the same collection. Schnurer had a knack for producing coordinating outfits based on her travel inspirations. Aren't they beautiful?
Schnurer's designs were based on the classic American silhouette at the time while incorporating many of the cultural influences from her travels in either fabrics or construction details.
We will explore more of Carolyn's work later this week.
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