Designing Hollywood: Studio Wardrobe in the Golden Age

Thursday, November 14 | 7:00 pm

As movie studios were launched in Hollywood and greater Los Angeles, the important role of costumes became apparent. Studios created wardrobe departments and employed the best costume designers to create lavish costumes for their now famous movie stars. By the 1930s, costumes launched fashion trends and women of the era flocked to the movies to get the latest fashion cues – a phenomenon seen even to this day.

Join author Christian Esquevin and learn about the evolution of costume design and wardrobe departments, and their importance in creating the image of movie stars during Hollywood’s Golden Age. Esquevin will discuss designers such as George Orry-Kelly who worked with Bette Davis, William Travilla who worked with Marilyn Monroe, and Helen Rose who worked with Elizabeth Taylor. He will also show glamorous photos of these stars and original costume design illustrations, with behind-the-scene details and anecdotes.

Presentation will begin at 7:00 pm; PMH Galleries will be open for viewing at 6:00 pm.

Space is limited; advance reservations required.

Copies of Designing Hollywood: Studio Wardrobe in the Golden Age will be available for purchase in our Museum Store on 11/14/2024 after the program.

Image: Book Cover – Designing Hollywood: Studio Wardrobe in the Golden Age by Christian Esquevin

Host or Publisher Pasadena Museum of History