I just finished reading a wonderful biography by Betty Halbreich entitled "I'll Drink to That, A Life in Style with a Twist." Betty had an interesting life, growing up in Chicago and then moving to NYC when she got married. She was born into a wealthy family and married into an even wealthier one. Growing up around fashion gave her a wonderful insight into clothing and she kind of fell into her job as a personal shopper at Bergdorff-Goodman. She had lots of fun memories about growing up in Chicago; one of my favorites was her recollection of the Marshall Field's Special Sandwich served at the Walnut Room
In my stash I have many vintage labels which in themselves are works of art. I used the woven label above to make a pin, backed with a beautiful red & white obi piece and stuffed with fiberfill. The outside edge is beaded. I tried to find something on Millie with no luck. I thought she was a designer but it turns out she had a dress shop in Chicago in the 1950-60's. I was thrilled to come across the following info about her in Betty's book:
The only other place that rivaled Korshak's serene luxury was
Millie B. Oppenheimer. Tucked away in a small group of
rooms ustairs in the Ambassador East Hotel, there was nothing
more than a credenza and fresh flowers to connote a store.
Her clientele was as small as her shop. The epitome of low-key
graciousness, Miss Oppenheimer in her small hat and black clothing
had the most exquisite taste; taste I have never seen matched.
Beyond that, though, was her understanding of the women she
dressed. Miss Oppenheimer cared about everyone who shopped with her; she was a rarity in that she bought with great insight for each individual customer. (Some specialty stores still do this; that is the great thing about them. Unlike department stores that buy a popular dress in a range of sizes, owners of these small regional boutiques will take a model in a size with a regular customer in mind.)
graciousness, Miss Oppenheimer in her small hat and black clothing
had the most exquisite taste; taste I have never seen matched.
Beyond that, though, was her understanding of the women she
dressed. Miss Oppenheimer cared about everyone who shopped with her; she was a rarity in that she bought with great insight for each individual customer. (Some specialty stores still do this; that is the great thing about them. Unlike department stores that buy a popular dress in a range of sizes, owners of these small regional boutiques will take a model in a size with a regular customer in mind.)
