February 1952. Jeanne Paquin was the first woman to gain international celebrity in the fashion business. Known for her innovative designs as well as her entrepreneurial qualities, her design career spanned three decades, from 1891 to 1920. During that time she designed garments for the Queens of Belgium, Portugal, and Spain; for famous actresses; and for the wives of American tycoons such as the Astors, Ballantines, Rockfellers, Vanderbilts and Wannamakers. The fashion house, which in its heyday employed more than two thousand workers, continued after Jeanne’s retirement. Now, in 1952, the head designer is Lou Claverie. The business will close its doors for the last time in 1956.
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