While bombshell actress, Marilyn Monroe, may have used her natural assets to portray a sensual, glamorous image, designer William Travilla deserves some credit for making her a style icon. Travilla designed Monroe’s dresses for eight of her films in the 1950’s including, Gentlemen Prefer Blondes, How to Marry a Millionaire, and There’s No Business Like Show Business among many others. He was the creator of the iconic white, plunging dress from The Seven Year Itch. His gowns have been worn by Whitney Houston, Faye Dunaway, Judy Garland, Sharon Tate, Betty Grable, and Lana Turner to name only a few.

After the 1950’s, he diversified from solely costume designing and started his own line. He drew inspiration from his work with famous actresses to create elegant, yet wearable clothing for real women. His style is casual yet sensual.