Frederick Mellinger, better known as Mr. Frederick to his adoring customers, had a vision to bring sensuous and sophisticated European-style lingerie to the American woman. In 1946, after a quick stint in New York, Mr. Frederick moved his business to Hollywood Boulevard to take advantage of the glitz and glamour of the movie star era. His plan worked and the brand became synonymous with the likes of Hollywood legends such as Marilyn Monroe, Bettie Page, and Jayne Mansfield who visited the infamous “Frederick’s of Hollywood’s Purple Palace” and donned his creations.
Ever the risk-taker, Mr. Frederick was set on exposing the secret world of lingerie and in the 1950’s was the first to advertise intimates in both men’s and women’s magazines. 1986 saw the quirky ‘Lingerie hall of fame’ open within the Hollywood boulevard store. This housed some of the world’s most iconic underwear in music and film, including Madonna’s ‘Open up your heart’ corset which was stolen during 1992. Later returned on December 1st, the Mayor of L.A declared this day to be ‘Frederick’s of Hollywood Day’ in celebration.
Frederick Mellinger died in 1990, however, his Hollywood legacy has lived on with collaborations including the likes of Pamela Anderson, Dita Von Teese, and most recently Megan Fox. In true Mr Frederick style, the brand continues to innovate and deliver beautifully designed and impeccably made lingerie.
A lasting legacy
You might wonder how Frederick’s of Hollywood has continued to stand the test of time and be the place to shop for everyone from Hollywood starlets to supermodels to lingerie lovers and their discerning partners.
Let’s take a stroll down memory lane.