5 things you should know about American designer Halston before watching the series

Netflix’s new limited series Halston is sure to make a style statement, at the very least. The show revolves around world-famous American fashion designer Roy Halston Frowick, who rose to fame soon before his life began to spin out of control.

Here are 5 facts you should know about him and his career before you watch the series.

1. Halston began his career as a hat maker

In 1953, Halston kick-started his career as a hat maker and established his very own salon at Chicago’s Ambassador Hotel. Five years later, he headed to New York to work for designer Lilly Daché, right before he made his way to Bergdorf Goodman’s hat salon. Some of his clients included actresses Kim Novak and Gloria Swanson. His career took off when First Lady Jacqueline Kennedy wore a hat he designed to President John F Kennedy’s inauguration.

2. He was one of the first in the industry to create a unisex line

Halston’s revolutionary ideas made him the best in the business, and a unisex clothing line was one of them. His collection included leather jackets, fur coats, sweaters, and much more.

3. Halston and the New York party scene

The designer was a fixture in the party scene in New York and regularly threw parties at his townhouse in the Upper East Side. He was also regularly spotted at Studio 54, from where he often gained inspiration for designs that defined the ‘70s disco theme.

4. He participated in the Battle of Versailles fashion show

Halston joined four well-renowned fashion designers to showcase their work against some of the best French designers. Halston presented his top-notch ready-to-read and sportswear lines at the fashion show that was meant to be a fund-raiser to restore the palace.

5. Best-known for his iconic designs

His love for the nightlife in New York inspired him to design a number of clothing lines. One of his fantastic designs was the halter dress that became the uniform for every woman heading to the disco.