Hubert Latimer started out in California, first with Charles Cooper, then designing for Irene (with label credit) after her death in 1962 until 1971, when he was named the designer for Christian Dior-New York. His first collection for Dior-NY was in May, 1971. In 1972, Dior changed course with the New York label, and shifted the design to Paris. From 1973 to 1974, Latimer joined Mollie Parnis, designing the higher priced clothing, with Morty Sussman designing the boutique line.
In 1975, he returned to California and started a line with Atelier 7, in a partnership with Rudi Gernreich. In 1976, Gernreich was apparently the sole designer there.
Latimer was also a professor at the Fashion Institute of Design & Merchandising in Los Angeles for some years, through at least 1989, when three of his students designed Marilyn Quayle’s Inaugural wardrobe.
Written by Hollis Jenkins-Evans
from a 1960s dress
Courtesy of Hollis Jenkins-Evans
from a 1980s dress
Courtesy of Ranch Queen Vintage
