#5173 - (49¢) Oscar de la Renta - Sheet of 11

Dominican fashion designer Oscar de la Renta (1932-2014) began his artistic education as a painter at the age of 18, only drawing clothing on the side to earn extra money. When Francesca Lodge, wife of the U.S. Ambassador to Spain discovered his sketches, she commissioned de la Renta to design a gown for her daughter. The dress went on to appear on the cover of Life magazine, and a young de la Renta fell in love with the world of fashion design. For over 60 years he continued to design both custom-fitted and ready-to-wear clothing, home furnishings, and even the Tortuga Bay hotel. De la Renta helped America earn a top spot on the world’s apparel stage. His elegant designs were worn by fashion-forward women around the world and were some of the most in-demand of their time. Scott 5173 Oscar de la Renta