Wednesday, February 09, 2011

Teal Traina - 1963

I love these ads from Bergdorf Goodman. Whoever was writing their copy at the time (1963) had a wonderful way with words. "The Quick Black Costume....It says "news" almost before you can blink. It dashes its way into summer free of sleeves, and full of the brio a costume must have this season. The crisp Swiss-cotton ottoman was clipped and carved for us by Teal Traina with a back-flashing jacket that swings on over the easy, camisoled dress. In brisk black, frosted mocha, and a very newsy white." Perfection.

Teal Traina was Anthony Traina's nephew. Anthony Traina was Norman Norell's financial partner. Geoffrey Beene was a designer at Teal Traina from 1958-63, so it is likely this delightful outfit was his. I have a similar Teal Traina ensemble in cream silk that is currently at the cleaners. Coming soon to Couture Allure! BTW, this outfit sold for $145 in 1963 (about $1033 in today's dollar.)