La Mendola was started by Americans Mike La Mendola and Jack Savage. They met in Rome in 1960 while working together on a movie. They decided to open their own dressmaking and retail establishment in Rome. For several years they worked out of the back of a beauty salon, but slowly their business became a shopping destination. By 1967 they had a shop at the top of the Spanish Steps and were holding fashion shows. They had a celebrity clientele that included Elizabeth Taylor and Rita Hayworth.
The pair produced dramatic clothing in bright colors, clothing that was very much in the Italian style of the day. The shop lasted at least until 1982.
Written by lkranieri Thanks to Tom Clark for additional information.
from a 1970s dress
Courtesy of thespectrum
