Muir, Jean (1928–1995)

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Muir, Jean (1928–1995)

British fashion designer. Born Jean Elizabeth Muir, 1928, in London, England; died of cancer, May 28, 1995, in London; educated at Dame Harper School, Bedford, England, 1945–50; m. Harry Leuckert, 1955.

Concentrating on elegant and stylish tailoring instead of fashion's latest whim, designed clothing known for its quality and classic appeal; worked as a fashion sketcher at Liberty's department store, London (1952–55); was a designer for Jacqmar (1955) and Jaeger dress and knitwear collections (1956–63), both London; was a founder-director, Jane and Jane fashion company, London (1962–66); founder-partner, with Harry Leuckert, and chief designer of her own design firm, Jean Muir Ltd (from 1966). Created a Commander of Order of the British Empire (CBE, 1984).

See also autobiography Jean Muir (London, 1981); and Women in World History.