Fashionable History: Orry-Kelly

The gorgeous metallic sequin dress in Some Like it Hot

Mitzi Gaynor in Les Girls

1930's luncheon wear in Three on a Match.

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I recently watched the fantastic pre-code 1930's films, Three on a Match (starring Joan Blondell Ann Dvorak and a young and blonde Bette Davis) and Female (starring Ruth Chatterton) and discovered the wonderful costumes were designed by Orry-Kelly. Not as well known as Adrian or Edith Head I had never heard of him and decided to do a little research. As it turns out he should be more well known than he is. He has done the gowns and costumes for hundreds of films including the big Busby Berkeley musicals, Jezebel (1938), The Maltese Falcon (1941), Casablanca (1942), and Les Girls (1957). He won oscars for his designs in An American in Paris (1951), and one of my absolute favorites, Some Like it Hot (1959).
I was already a fan and didn't know it!

Oscar Faves

Marisa Tomei in the most stunning Versace gown.

Penelope Cruz in vintage Balmain.

Evan Rachel Wood in Elie Saab.

These three dresses were my favorites from last night's Oscars. These dresses represent the true Classic Hollywood glamour I love so much and they are exquisitely designed with gorgeous draping and pleating. Well done!