Two Irene Skirt Suits, 1950s

This lot includes two Irene Lentz skirt suits.

Irene Lentz, known as Irene, cultivated a prolific career in film and fashion between 1921 and her death in 1962. Beginning as an actress, Irene came to rely on sewing skills that earned her contracts with Los Angeles department stores. She eventually designed film costumes for Hollywood production studios, culminating in her role as head of art direction at MGM. The suits in this lot were retailed for Halle Bros. Co., a Cleveland-based department store chain, and exemplify hallmarks of her designs. They are tailored to create a narrow waist, austere and severe, but softened by sloping collars and carefully placed tucks to contour feminine curves.

THE FIRST
Black woven single breasted peplum jacket with notched lapel, set in long sleeves, and front button closure; paired with a matching midi skirt with top stitch detail.
Label: Irene
Retail Label: The Halle Bros. Co.
Size Label: Unlabeled

Approximate Measurements:
JACKET
Shoulders: 14.25"
Chest: 31.5"
Waist: 27.5"
Hips: 33.75"
Length (high shoulder point to hem): 22.25"
Sleeve (center back neck to hem): 30.25"

SKIRT
Waist: 26.5"
Hips: 33.75"
Length (side waist band to hem): 29.5"

THE SECOND
Grey wool single breasted peplum jacket with notched lapels, set in long sleeves, two faux flap pockets, folded sleeve cuffs, and front button closure; paired with a cream silk vest with high collar, front single welt pocket, and front button and half belt closure; paired with matching grey wool midi skirt.
Jacket, Vest, and Skirt
Label: Irene
Retail Label: The Halle Bros. Co.
Size Label: Unlabeled

Approximate Measurements:
JACKET
Shoulders: 15.25"
Chest: 32.75"
Waist: 27.25"
Hips: 32.75"
Length (high shoulder point to hem): 24.25"
Sleeve (center back neck to hem): 29.25"

VEST
Shoulders: 14.25"
Chest: 32"
Waist: 26.25"
Hips: 26.5"
Length (high shoulder point to hem): 20.5"

SKIRT
Waist: 25"
Hips: 30.75"
Length (side waist band to hem): 27.5"

Property from the Collection of the North Coast College