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TMD 402G The Future of Fashion
Halston’s Story
Lauren Turner |
Summary by Aimee Welch
Roy Halston Frowick (1933-1990), better known as Halston, had a great impact on the fashion landscape. He is considered one of the first superstar designers. The history of Halston’s career is an interesting and troubled one.
Halston had an innate sense of style and began designing at an early age. He began his design career creating hats that he sold at Andre Basil’s salon. In 1958, he was offered a job designing hats for Bergdorf Goodman. Halston became famous for the pillbox hats worn by Jackie Kennedy. In the 1960’s, he became a dress designer with a celebrity clientele. Liz Taylor and Liza Minnelli were among his greatest supporters. Halston got into trouble when he sold his label. When his parent company was bought out in the 1980’s, the Halston name ended up in the hands of a major conglomerate. This company wouldn’t allow him to use his name without their permission. In 1990, Halston died of AIDS.
Halston’s story is especially relevant today. Many designers are seeking financial support from large companies. His experience shows how giving control to an outside company can be detrimental to a designer.