#31. Dialogue with Dixie Lee Davis on "Tulips, Turtles and Trigère"

Pauline Trigère with Dixie Lee Davis

Dixie Lee Davis was a prominent figure in the Cleveland fashion scene. Her remarkable work for identifying top designers from New York City and presenting their collections in Cleveland was highlighted by her admiration for the designs of Pauline Trigère.

Having started her professional journey as the Fashion Director at Halle's Department Store. Established in 1891, Halle's was among the earliest upscale department stores in Cleveland. In an article from 1927, Time magazine lauded the high-end store, comparing it to Lord & Taylor, for its role in elevating Cleveland to a more cosmopolitan status. Dixie later moved to Saks Fifth Avenue where she took on the role of Club Director. During her tenure, she managed to generate the highest sales inside Saks in Cleveland. At Hallie’s and as the Saks Club Director, she played a key role in coordinating fashion events and hosting renowned designers for personal appearances, such as Oscar de la Renta, Carolina Herrera, Diane von Furstenberg, Ralph Lauren, Halston, Mollie Paris, Kasper, Bill Blass, Norman Norell, Bonnie Cashion, Richard Assatly, Frank Massandrea, Arnold Scassi and of course, Pauline Trigere.

Pauline Trigere fashion show

Pauline Trigere with model

Pauline Trigere, Mebby Brown

Jessica Chen with Dixie Lee

Pauline Trigere interview

In 1973, Dixie organized the "Fashion Scenario '73" fashion show at Severance Hall, the renowned venue of the Cleveland Orchestra with a seating capacity of 2000. At that time, Dixie Lee held the position of fashion director at Halle's department store. The extravagant event showcased Pauline and Bill Blass on a circular runway stage that extended over the first row of seats at the stunning Severance Hall. The spectacular show included a full orchestra and was attended by 650 guests.

In May 20, 1992, Dixie spearheaded a lavish fashion show and a retrospective of Pauline Trigère. Named "Tulips, Turtles, and Trigere.” Dixie came up with this title with Trigere's signature turtles and her love of tulips. The occasion served as a fundraising event for the Chisholm Halle Costume Wing at the Western Reserve Historical Museum. Dixie Lee co-chaired alongside influential Cleveland figures such as Mebby Brown, Claire Paskevich, and Mary Zalar Sterle.  The Honorary Chairpersons included Mary Callahan (wearing a Trigère hat) and Helen Halle (Mrs.Walter M. Halle.)  The charming invitation, adorned with delightful illustrations of turtles and tulips, was designed by Dick Desberg. In addition to the fundraising for the museum, the event allowed Cleveland socialites such as K.K. Sullivan, Judy Morgan Welles, and Madeleine Parkers all modeled Trigère's iconic designs. These garments, representing various stages of Trigere's career. The garments were praised for their enduring grace and refinement. Few men at the show included Jack Brown, Shannon Rodgers, George Speakman, Ted Sande and Costume curator Barry Bradley, whom was wearing a Trigère tie.  Other attendees included Marie Strawbridge, Lois Horvitz, Honey Rosenthal, Terry Downing, Joan Fountain, Barbara Galvin, JoAnne Viola, Patty Williams and Judy Reeves. With nearly 500 attendees and $50,000 raised, the gala concluded with a standing ovation from the enthusiastic audience. The event underscored Dixie's professionalism and her talent for uniting fashion lovers in support of a charitable cause. The lavish luncheon began with a gourmet sliced tenderloin and concluded with a chocolate turtle floating in raspberry sauce, adding a delightful touch to a memorable occasion.

Pauline acknowledged Dixie for the exceptionally well-planned and successful event, as shown by her sincere thank-you letter to Dixie:

"Dear Dixie:

I am going to be repetitious, but I must put it in writing; the show, the production, your talk - every-thing was "super" at Severance Hall.

You are truly professional and I love that.

My best to your always,

au merci, au love, Pauline."

Dixie Lee Davis is highly respected by the Cleveland community, the Museum shop at Kent State University is named after her. Upon her retirement after nearly twenty-six years at Saks, the staff created a special photo album for her; filled with photographs and well-wishes from all those who had worked with her. Dixie's dedication for uniting people through style for a common cause have left a profound impact on all who have had the pleasure of knowing her. It was a true privilege for me to meet Dixie during my research trip to Cleveland.

For additional blogs of editorial photos from Dixie's archive visit HERE.

June 29, 2024