With multiple garments in The Metropolitan Museum of Art’s permanent collection, Bill Tice was a true innovator. He is known for making “at-home” loungewear mainstream and fashionable. He poohpoohed utilitarian pajamas and housecoats and designed garments for every body to feel beautiful in. We love that!
His caftans, robes and gowns have been worn by Elizabeth Taylor, Brooke Shields and the Gabor sisters. Mr. Tice had a keen eye for detail and offered size inclusive silhouettes in his collections.
Tice once described at-home wear as “originally aimed at rich ladies, but I thought women’s lifestyles were changing, and time was on my side.” His trademarks included rich jewel tones and exotic trim and silks, giving at-home wear a look of sophistication suitable for a night out or at home entertaining.
Tice began his career in New York in the 1960s. His designs quickly caught on when his clients realized they could look glamorous and still be comfortable.
Bill Tice was a 30 year veteran of apparel design when he died at 52 years young. He certainly left his mark on the fashion world. His designs are collected worldwide and we are always searching to make his vintage styles available to you.
Caftans from Elizabeth Taylor’s collection: including a blue Bill Tice caftan she wore in 1972.