Eleanor Lambert was a highly influential figure in the world of American fashion and public relations. She is often referred to as the "Grand Dame of American Fashion Public Relations" and played a pivotal role in promoting American fashion on the international stage. Here are some key highlights of her life and career:
Born on August 10, 1903, in Crawfordsville, Indiana, Lambert became a fashion publicist in the 1930s, a time when American fashion struggled to gain recognition compared to its European counterparts, particularly French fashion.
In 1943, during World War II, Lambert organized "Press Week" in New York City, which was a precursor to what would later become New York Fashion Week. The event aimed to showcase American fashion and designers, as French fashion was inaccessible during the war.
Lambert played a significant role in the founding of the Council of Fashion Designers of America (CFDA) in 1962, an organization dedicated to promoting American fashion. She served as its first executive director.
She was instrumental in establishing the Costume Institute at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City, which became a leading institution for the preservation and exhibition of fashion history.
Throughout her career, Lambert provided support and mentorship to numerous American designers, helping them gain recognition both nationally and internationally.
Lambert's contributions to the fashion industry and her efforts to elevate American fashion's status are widely recognized. She passed away on October 7, 2003, leaving behind a lasting legacy in the world of fashion PR and promotion.
Eleanor Lambert's dedication and advocacy for American fashion played a crucial role in shaping the industry, and her impact is still felt today, particularly through her involvement in the establishment of New York Fashion Week and the CFDA.
