Google Doodle Celebrates Altina Schinasi, Iconic Designer of the ‘Cat-Eye’ Eyeglass Frame !
Google Doodle honors Altina Schinasi on her 116th Birthday, celebrating the life of the American designer renowned for her creation of the iconic ‘cat-eye’ eyeglass frame. Born in Manhattan, New York in 1907 to immigrant parents, Schinasi’s artistic journey led her from the streets of Manhattan to the vibrant art scene of Paris, where she pursued her passion for painting after completing high school.
While working as a window dresser on Fifth Avenue in New York City, Schinasi further honed her artistic skills at The Art Students League, collaborating with and learning from artistic giants like Salvador Dalà and George Grosz, significantly shaping her creative vision.
Her groundbreaking idea for the “cat-eye” eyeglass frame emerged during her time as a window display designer. Inspired by the captivating shape of Harlequin masks from the Carnevale festival in Venice, Italy, Schinasi envisioned eyeglass frames with pointed edges that accentuated and flattered the wearer’s face. Despite facing initial rejections from major manufacturers, her persistence paid off when a local shop owner recognized the potential of her design and requested an exclusive agreement. The Harlequin eyeglasses became a fashion sensation among women in the US during the late 1930s and 1940s.
Altina Schinasi’s innovative creation earned her prestigious recognition, including the Lord & Taylor American Design Award in 1939, with Vogue and Life magazines also acknowledging her contribution to the world of fashion.
In addition to her design prowess, Schinasi delved into filmmaking, producing a compelling documentary about her former teacher, George Grosz, titled “George Grosz’ Interregnum.” The film received widespread acclaim, earning an Academy Award nomination and winning first place at the Venice Film Festival in 1960.
Throughout her life, Schinasi continued to explore new artistic pursuits, penning her memoir, “The Road I Have Traveled,” and volunteering as an art therapist, using her creative talents to help others.
Altina Schinasi’s visionary ‘cat-eye’ design continues to influence fashion accessory trends worldwide, almost a century after its inception. Google celebrates the extraordinary woman who left an indelible mark on both the fashion and artistic worlds. Happy birthday, Altina Schinasi!