Irene (costume designer)

Irene (born Irene Lentz, December 8, 1900 – November 15, 1962) was an American costume designer and fashion designer. She is best known for her work in Hollywood films during the 1930s, 1940s, and 1950s.

Irene began her career as a dress shop owner before transitioning into costume design. She gained recognition for her sophisticated and elegant designs, often emphasizing streamlined silhouettes and understated glamour. She worked for several major studios, including MGM, Paramount, and 20th Century Fox.

Some of Irene's notable film credits include Midnight Lace (1960), for which she received an Academy Award nomination for Best Costume Design, Pillow Talk (1959), Please Don't Eat the Daisies (1960), and many others. She was known for her ability to create looks that enhanced the character's personality and the overall narrative of the film.

Beyond her film work, Irene also established her own couture house, Irene, Inc., which operated from the late 1940s until the early 1960s. She designed clothing for private clients and presented her collections in fashion shows. Her designs were characterized by their elegance, simplicity, and attention to detail.

Irene's influence on fashion and costume design is significant. She helped to shape the look of Hollywood glamour and contributed to the development of a distinctively American style of dress. Her legacy continues to inspire designers today.