Date of Birth: August 30, 1927
Zodiac Sign: Virgo
Date of Death: September 28, 2004
Biography
Geoffrey Beene was an influential American fashion designer known for his innovative and comfortable yet elegant designs. Born Samuel Albert Bozeman Jr. in Haynesville, Louisiana, Beene initially pursued a career in medicine, studying at Tulane University and then at the University of Southern California. However, his passion for fashion led him to abandon his medical studies and move to New York City, where he enrolled in the Traphagen School of Fashion. Beene began his career in fashion working for various design houses such as Harmay and Teal Traina. In 1963, he launched his own company, Geoffrey Beene, Inc. His first collection was a massive success, gaining critical acclaim for its modernity and elegance. Beene’s designs often featured innovative fabrics and cuts, and he was known for creating clothes that were both comfortable and stylish. Throughout his career, Beene received numerous awards, including eight Coty Awards and three CFDA Awards. He was also the first designer to show a collection on the runway at Lincoln Center in New York. In addition to his women’s collections, Beene also designed menswear, uniforms, and even hospital gowns, always with a focus on practicality and elegance. Beene was also a notable philanthropist, establishing the Geoffrey Beene Foundation, which supported medical research and various charitable causes. He passed away in 2004, leaving behind a legacy of innovation and excellence in fashion.
5 Interesting Facts about Geoffrey Beene
1. Geoffrey Beene initially studied to become a doctor before switching to fashion design.
2. He was the first designer to show a collection at Lincoln Center in New York.
3. Beene received eight Coty Awards during his career, the highest number ever awarded to a single designer.
4. He established the Geoffrey Beene Foundation, which supports medical research and various charitable causes.
5. Beene designed the iconic “Beene Bag” dress, which became a staple in American fashion.
5 Most Interesting Quotes from Geoffrey Beene
1. “The greatest thing you can have in your wardrobe is a good tailor.”
2. “Design without functionality is art.”
3. “Clothes should feel as if you are wearing nothing at all.”
4. “Elegance is not about being noticed, it’s about being remembered.”
5. “True style is not about following trends; it’s about being yourself.”
Highest Net Worth Achieved
At the peak of his career, Geoffrey Beene’s net worth was estimated to be around $50 million.
Children
Geoffrey Beene did not have any children.
Relevant Links
1. [Geoffrey Beene Foundation](https://www.geoffreybeenefoundation.com
2. [CFDA Biography](https://cfda.com/members/profile/geoffrey-beene
3. [Vogue Profile](https://www.vogue.com/article/remembering-geoffrey-beene
5. [Fashion Model Directory](https://www.fashionmodeldirectory.com/designers/geoffrey-beene
