~ Nancy Carroll, the paper doll ~

In 1978, author and fashion illustrator Tom Tierney got together with Dover Publications, Inc., New York to present a fabulous collection of paper dolls. He called this particular set " Glamorous Movie Stars of the Thirties Paper Dolls ". When the set made its debut, the honored actresses were Judy Garland, Greta Garbo, Carole Lombard, Joan Crawford, Jean Harlow, Constance Bennett, Jeanette MacDonald and the enchanting, Nancy Carroll. Tom said of his collection, " This book includes eight of my favorite actresses and some of the most elegant or most characteristic costumes worn in films of the Thirties."

Nancy's fabulous patent-leather evening gown reproduced in this collection, is from " After The Dance" ( although the photo below indicates it is from " Transatlantic Merry-Go-Round ")and was designed by Gwen Wakeling, one of the chief designers at 20th Century-Fox. The others were the creations of designers Murry Mayer, Travis Banton, and Robert Kalloch.

Tom Tierney reminds us, " Black-and-white film presented an interesting challenge to costume designers of the Thirties because it forced them to achieve distinctive costuming by concentrating on the line of the garment itself. Many Hollywood designers of the period became absolute masters at this difficult feat. "

Nancy Carroll's inclusion in this set of paper dolls supports her rightful place in the history of Hollywood. Thank you Tom Tierney!