Although he launched his own collection in 1965, Brooks' first love was designing for the theater. He created more than 3,500 costumes for the 1968 movie “Star!” with Julie Andrews. Brooks received a Tony award nomination for his work on the movie “No Strings,” followed by three Oscar nominations for his subsequent work.
His design work thrived through the use of bold patterns and playful colors. He retired his business in 1973 but continued to design through several licensing agreements.
Brooks received three Coty Awards for fashion and was honored with the Parsons' Medal of Distinction. He won an Emmy award for his costume design work on the 1982 movie “The Letter” and, throughout his career, created designs for more than 20 Broadway shows.
“Donald Brooks was the quintessential American fashion designer, creating designs that were all his own during a time when so many were looking to Europe,” said Gerald Blum, former executive vice president of Lord & Taylor. “His was pure American fashion. We are thrilled that he will be immortalized alongside his peers and prominent designers, and on behalf of Donald and all who loved him, we wish to thank the Fashion Center BID for this prestigious honor.”
This year's winners were selected from a list of 17 living and 19 deceased designers. The Fashion Walk of Fame Selections Committee, consisting of renowned fashion historians, curators, editors and press, reviewed a list of over 200 names and narrowed it down to 36 final nominees. More than 100 industry professionals then cast ballots to determine the 2011 winners.
In order to be considered for the Fashion Walk of Fame, designers must be American, owned their own business for at least 10 years and have a showroom in New York, or be known as a New York-based designer.
The Fashion Center Business Improvement District, a not-for-profit corporation, was established in 1993 to improve the quality of life and economic vitality of Manhattan's Fashion District. Through programs in the areas of streetscape improvements, sanitation and public safety services, marketing and promotions, economic development, and community service, efforts are aimed at promoting the district as a strategic midtown business location and ensuring New York's position as the fashion capital of the world.
Fashion Center Business Improvement District
marketing@alchempro.com
