From Publishers Weekly
Film historian Chierichetti pays tribute to the grit behind one woman's glamorous career. Head spent more than 40 years at Paramount, won eight Oscars and became as famous as the stars she dressed. Her longevity came thanks to diplomacy and manipulation, and Chierichetti meticulously details her love affairs, touted designs and public appeal. From 1925 until her death in 1981, Head was a byword in Hollywood and an American fashion icon. She endured long hours, modest pay and studio machinations, yet never lost her cool. And she dressed everyone, from Barbara Stanwyck and Grace Kelly to Paul Newman. Draped in dark glasses and severe suits, Head was a master at playing politics and keeping competitors at bay. She was also an accomplished liar, which haunted her throughout her life. Head accepted the Oscar for Sabrina, though the gowns were designed by Givenchy. She gambled that the unknown Frenchman would remain silent-and he did. Not that the impenetrable Head wasn't a talent in her own right. Her ability to stay within budget and placate divas-"I might have to dress her again"-was as legendary as her fashion virtuosity. Olivia de Havilland dubbed her "a marvel." Yet the twice-married designer was also insecure and aloof; keeping secrets kept her in the game. Few, save Chierichetti, ever penetrated her inner core. He paints an absorbing sketch of an ambitious woman whose career defined Hollywood's golden years. Fashion lovers will enjoy his homage, and his devotion to movie magic. Photos.
Copyright 2003 Reed Business Information, Inc.
Copyright 2003 Reed Business Information, Inc.
From School Library Journal
Adult/High School-When Hollywood was young, a teacher named Edith Head passed off her students' sketches as her own to get a job at Paramount Pictures as a costume designer's assistant. This ruse was the beginning of the career of one of the most talented and honored individuals in the history of motion pictures. She continued to pass off the work of others as her own, was frighteningly insecure, and played politics to the hilt to get ahead. By the end of her career, however, these qualities detracted only slightly from her natural talent and creativity. In interviews with the author, Head dished dirt on the figure flaws of such leading ladies as Bette Davis and Barbara Stanwyck. While these are not household names to today's teens, Hollywood glamour has changed little over time. The loyalty Head received from these stars for making them look so flawless contributed much to her success. Photographs show how well her designs worked. The list of film credits spans more than 50 years and hundreds of movies. Teens with an interest in fashion and film will find this biography fascinating.
Jamie Watson, Enoch Pratt Free Library, Baltimore
Copyright 2003 Reed Business Information, Inc.
Jamie Watson, Enoch Pratt Free Library, Baltimore
Copyright 2003 Reed Business Information, Inc.
