Founded by Jacob Sarnoff c. 1949 – 1950, this was a family firm that manufactured expensive coats, dresses, and suits. Jacob Sarnoff, who left IJ Fox furriers to found his own business in 1946,was the president, his brother Joseph was charge of production, and Joseph’s son Jay was general manager in the 1960s. Jacob Sarnoff was chairman of the Fashion Center at the NY World’s Fair. Company clients included Doris Day and Pat Nixon, notably Mrs. Nixon’s 1969 daytime Inaugural ensemble in 1969. The business address in 1967 was 512 7th Ave.
Molly Sarnoff Levy was the designer and a partner. She was promoted as Molly for Jack Sarnoff in their publicity. She started designing as early as 1935 and patented a suit in 1945. She designed coats and suits at the firm until she retired in 1971. According to the Wisconsin State Journal of March 8, 1953, Molly Levy was “The first woman designer to enter the man tailored coat and suit industry and is now a recognized leader…”
Jacob Sarnoff died in 1965, Molly S. Levey in 1972. There is nothing available on the company after 1971.
Written by Past Perfect Vintage
from a 1959 suit
Courtesy of Past Perfect Vintage