Ruffin, Clovis (1946-1992)
Dates
- Existence: 1946-1992
Biography
Clovis Ruffin was an American fashion designer. He had his first major show in 1972 and was the youngest designer to win a Coty award in 1973. His focus was on womenswear and created pieces outside of the pants trend that was present at the time. His designs included clingy T-shirt like dresses that became his company's trademark look. He also focused on affordable workwear for women that was youthful and carefree. He was one of the first designers to extensively hire Black models. Ruffin opened his company Ruffinwear, that later became a part of the Kreisler group until it closed in 1979. Later on in his career in the 1980s, he designed loungewear and evening dresses. In 1990, he designed costumes for the Alvin Ailey dance company and began to branch out into interior design. He died of complications from AIDS at age 46 in 1992.
Found in 1 Collection or Record:
Symposium records, 2006
Includes the papers and presentation delivered at the 2006 Symposium "Forgotten Fashion." The names of the presenters and the title of their presentations contained in this folder are: Sarah Pitt, "The Usual Bandage, A History of Menstrual Garments;" Colleen Hill, "America's Lost Top Model;" Seta K. Wehbé, "The Poor Girl's Halston;" Marisa Berman, "Thankfully Forgotten: Fashions and Fads of the 1980's" (presentation on CD).