Adele Simpson was a prominent figure in the American fashion industry, known for her innovative designs and medium-priced clothing line. Born in 1903 in New York City to Latvian immigrant parents, Simpson's
journey in fashion began at a young age. Her career spanned nearly five decades, during which she made significant contributions to the world of fashion, earning accolades and dressing some of the most influential women of her time.
Early Life and Education
Adele Simpson, originally Adele Smithline, was born in New York City as the fifth daughter of Latvian immigrants. Her early life was marked by a passion for design, which led her to pursue formal education in the field. At the age of 21, she completed her design curriculum at the Pratt Institute, a prestigious art and design school. This education laid the foundation for her future success in the fashion industry.
Simpson's career began as the head designer for Ben Gershel, a well-known ready-to-wear fashion house located on Manhattan's 7th Avenue. Her role at Ben Gershel allowed her to hone her skills and gain valuable experience in the fashion world. This position was a stepping stone that eventually led her to establish her own fashion company.
Establishing Adele Simpson Inc.
In 1949, Adele Simpson took a significant step in her career by purchasing Mary Lee, a fashion business also based on 7th Avenue. She renamed it Adele Simpson Inc., marking the beginning of her own fashion label. That same year, she introduced her first clothing collection, which was well-received and set the stage for her future success.
Simpson's designs were characterized by their accessibility and affordability, catering to a wide audience with her medium-priced clothing line. Her ability to adapt French couture into American ready-to-wear fashion made her a standout designer in the industry. Her collections were featured in prominent department stores such as Bonwit Teller, B. Altman, and Saks Fifth Avenue, further solidifying her reputation.
Legacy and Influence
Adele Simpson's influence extended beyond her clothing designs. She was recognized for her innovative use of fabrics, earning several awards throughout her career. Notably, she received the Neiman Marcus Award for Distinguished Service in the Field of Fashion in 1946 and the Coty American Fashion Critics Award in 1947.
Her designs were favored by several First Ladies, including Lady Bird Johnson, Pat Nixon, and Barbara Bush, who wore Simpson's creations for various official occasions. Simpson's ability to blend style with practicality was evident in her designs, such as the wrinkle-resistant yellow coat and matching dress she created for Lady Bird Johnson.
Simpson continued to design into her 70s before retiring in 1985. Her legacy in the fashion industry remains significant, as she paved the way for future designers with her innovative approach and dedication to accessible fashion.
