Iconic fashion designer Juli Lynne Charlot, known for inventing the poodle skirt in the late 1940s, passed away at her home in Tepoztlán, Mexico at the age of 101. A former Hollywood singer turned viscountess, Charlot stumbled upon the idea for the circle skirt out of necessity when she found herself without suitable party attire. Born Shirley Agin in Manhattan to Jewish immigrant parents, Charlot’s creativity and entrepreneurial spirit led her to create a garment that would become emblematic of the 1950s fashion scene.
Her circle skirts, adorned with whimsical appliqués ranging from poodles to Parisian street scenes, were a hit among women and adolescent girls of the era. The totem of midcentury material culture became a symbol of carefree youth and rock ‘n’ roll rebellion. Charlot’s skirts were sold in exclusive department stores and are still prized by vintage clothing collectors today.
Despite her success as a designer, Charlot faced personal struggles in her marriages, including divorces from two millionaires and a viscount. Her legacy lives on through her innovative designs and contributions to the fashion world. In her later years, she continued to create contemporary renditions of Mexican wedding dresses while residing in Tepoztlán.
Before the miniskirt took over the fashion scene in the 1960s, the poodle skirt reigned supreme as a symbol of an era. Charlot’s impact on the world of fashion is undeniable, and her creative spirit will be remembered for generations to come.