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Capturing the Essence of 1950s Glamour Through Francesco Scavullo’s Photography

In the 1950s, a decade known for its post-war glamour and the rise of haute couture, Francesco Scavullo emerged as a pioneering fashion photographer. Born in 1921 in Staten Island, New York City, Scavullo would come to define and immortalize the era’s fashion with his distinctive photographic style.

Early Beginnings and Influences

Scavullo’s foray into the world of photography began at a young age when he started working for a studio that produced fashion catalogs. This early exposure to the mechanics of fashion photography laid the groundwork for his illustrious career. However, it was his tenure as an assistant to Horst P. Horst, a prominent photographer of the time, that truly shaped his craft. Under Horst’s tutelage, Scavullo absorbed the intricate techniques and the artistry involved in creating compelling fashion images.

Establishing a Studio in Manhattan

Empowered by his experiences and the skills he acquired, Scavullo opened his own photography studio in Manhattan in the early 1950s. This move marked the beginning of a new chapter in his career, allowing him the freedom to explore and express his own photographic vision. His studio became a creative haven where Scavullo could experiment with different styles and techniques, gradually developing a signature approach that captured the elegance and sophistication of the era’s fashion.

The Marriage to Carol McCallson

Scavullo’s personal life, particularly his marriage to model Carol McCallson from 1952 to 1955, played a significant role in his work during the 1950s. McCallson, with her grace and photogenic presence, became not only his muse but also a conduit through which Scavullo explored the nuances of feminine beauty and fashion. Their collaboration produced some of the most memorable images of the decade.

The Vogue Years and Beyond

Scavullo’s talents soon caught the attention of Vogue, one of the most prestigious fashion magazines of the time. His work for the magazine further solidified his position as a leading fashion photographer. At Vogue, Scavullo had the opportunity to photograph the decade’s leading models and fashion icons, each photo shoot contributing to the era’s evolving fashion narrative.

Through his lens, Scavullo captured the essence of the 1950s, from the structured elegance of Dior’s New Look to the playful sophistication of American sportswear. His photographs reflected the decade’s optimistic outlook and its celebration of femininity.

#1 Model in a floral print crêpe dinner dress by Joseph Whitehead for Herbert Sondheim, Harper’s Bazaar, January 1950.

#2 Model in a sophisticated blue silk-faille dinner-theatre dress by Adele Simpson, Vogue, September 1950.

#3 Barbara Mullen in a sleeveless crêpe and Enka rayon dress by Adele Simpson, Vogue, April 1, 1951.

#4 Elise Daniels in a blue and black check flared coat by Juilliard Wool for Junior Sophisticates, Vogue US, September 1951.

#5 Elise Daniels in a blue rayon satin faille after-dark dress by Adele Simpson, Vogue, September 1, 1951.

#6 Elise Daniels in a marquisette and Enka Rayon dress by Earl Luick for Anna Miller, Vogue, March 15, 1951.

#7 Lisa Fonssagrives in a dress of marquisette and Enka Rayon by Herbert Sondheim, Harper’s Bazaar, December 1951.

#8 Ricki VanDusen in a starched chiffon and Enka rayon dress by Kane-Weill, Harper’s Bazaar, April 1951.

#9 Sunny Harnett in an Enka rayon crêpe dress by Ben Reig, Harper’s Bazaar, February 1951.

#10 Suzy Parker in an Enka rayon organza dress by Filcol, Harper’s Bazaar, November 1951.

#12 Eva Gerney in a William Rose yarn-dyed faille gown with Enka rayon by Modern Couture, Vogue, November 1, 1952.

#13 Jean Patchett in a dress of sheer and Enka rayon by Philip Hulitar, Vogue, January 1, 1952.

#14 Suzy Parker in a dance dress of swirling marquisette and Enka Rayon by Harvey Berin, Harper’s Bazaar, January 1952.

#15 Carol McCallson in a classic suit by Handmacher, Glamour, April 1953.

#16 Carol McCallson in gold, white, and aqua attire by Brigance of Sportsmaker, Glamour, April 1953.

#17 Carol McCallson in green, gold, and black attire by Brigance of Sportsmaker, Glamour, April 1953.

#18 Ann Klem in a colorful striped sheath by Mr. Mort, May 1956.

#19 Dolores Hawkins in summery white piqué attire by Jo Collins, 1956.

#20 Model in a billowy white organdy dress by Jack Horwitz, Harper’s Bazaar U.S., December 1956.

#21 Model in a black knit bathing suit by Sportwhirl, Harper’s Bazaar U.S., December 1956.

#22 Dolores Hawkins in a heathery jersey swimsuit by Maurice Handler of California, Harper’s Bazaar, June 1957.

#24 Iris Bianchi and Lois Wideman in pink satin party dresses, 1958.

#26 Brooke Hayward in a pink peau-de-soie ballgown by Rappi, Harper’s Bazaar, October 1959.

#27 Iris Bianchi in a pink beach club dress by Anne Fogarty, Harper’s Bazaar, April 1959.

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Written by Megan Di

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