Around 1950. Photographer John Engstead was a friend of Irene’s as well as working regularly with her:
Irene, who designed glamorous dresses for Hollywood stars, was a fascinating lady. She was certain proof that all the exciting women of town weren’t in front of the cameras. In the 1930s and ’40s, every star and social butterfly who would afford her prices went to Irene at Bullocks Wilshire. She was the vital modern heroine of popular fiction – tall with tawny hair in a windswept bob, tan skin that required no makeup, and a husky voice. The lady dressed simply, swam well, and was expert at skeet shooting.
Photo by John Engstead.
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