HAWES, ELIZABETH

(1901-1971)

A graduate of Vassar College, Hawes pursued a love of fashion and studied in Paris for three years after receiving her degree in economics. She began a dressmaking business in the United States in 1928 and was promoted byLord&Taylordepartment store as an American talent. Able to recognize the power of publicity, Hawes creatively named each of her collections. She eventually closed Hawes and Company in 1940 and, except for a short revival in fashion, she devoted her life to writing. Drawn to controversial topics, Hawes is credited with publishing nine books on fashion and culture.