2006 HALL OF FAME

William Travilla

With a career spanning over forty years and more than 100 credits to his name, Bill Travilla is one of our most prolific designers.

Travilla, as he was known, became a Hollywood star in his own right, thanks in large part to his premier client, actress Marilyn Monroe. Best known for designing Monroe’s iconic and unforgettable costumes in eight films, including "Gentlemen Prefer Blondes" and "The Seven Year Itch" Travilla also lit up the silver screen with "Valley of the Dolls," "The Day the Earth Stood Still" and "Monkey Business."

Travilla won an Oscar in 1949 for the "Adventures of Don Juan," which he shared with designers Marjorie Best and Leah Rhodes. He was nominated three additional times for "How to Marry a Millionaire" (1953), "There’s No Business Like Show Business" (1954), and "The Stripper" (1963).

When the Golden Era of Hollywood ended, he focused on running his thriving couture business and found time to freelance for television epics such as "Evita," "The Thorn Birds" and "Dallas," winning Emmy's and accolades.

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