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Saturday, September 13, 2014

"Zelda Wynn Valdes"{June 28,1905-September 26,2011}

Was an African American fashion designer and costumer.In 1948,she opened her own shop on Broadway in New York City which was the first in the area owned by an
African American.Some of her clients included other notable African American women of her era,including Dorothy Dandridge and Marian Anderson.Zelda is also most famous for designing the original costumes for the Playboy Bunnies and the Dance Theater of Harlem.
Zelda began to develop her skills by studying her grandma and working for her uncle's tailoring business.She made her clothes for her dolls and eventually made her grandma a dress.Her grandma was so impressed,despite doubting Zelda could construct an outfit to fit her tall frame.Her grandma was buried in the same dress.Zelda's first job was at a fancy boutique where she had to try very hard to prove she was capable.Over time her good works were recognized and wanted by those who doubted her as a young African American woman.
Zelda moved to New York and opened her boutique,Chez Zelda,on Broadway and 158th Street.Shen then moved the store midtown Manhattan on West 57th Street.Zelda attracted many celeberties such as Dorothy Dandridge,Joyce Bryant,Ella Fritzerald and Mae West.In 1949,she became president of the New York Chapter of NAFAD,the National Association of Fashion and Accessory Designers.Later,Zelda was commissioned by Hugh Hefner to design the first Playboy Bunny outfit.At the age of 65,Zelda was hired by Arthur Mitchell to design outfits for the Dance Theatre of Harlem.At 83,she retired closed business to retire from fashion.


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