Gernreich, Rudi

(1922-1985)

   Best known for shocking the world as the creator of the monokini, Gernreich was born in Vienna and began his career in fashion in California. After several years working for various manufacturers and designing costumes, he opened his own business in 1960. Gernreich believed in a total look and understood the role that hairstyles played in creating this complete package. In 1965, he collaborated with the famous hairstylist Vidal Sassoon. Not timid in regard to color or pattern, Gernreich was part of the antifash-ion, unisex movement of the 1960s. Gernriech had a direct impact on intimate apparel with his "no-bra" look in the mid-1950s. Peggy Moffit, a famous 1960s fashion model, complemented his designs with her bold stark look.

   See also Lifestyle-dressing.