The Day 1980s Glamour Died
Wear your shoulder pads at half mast and dramatically drop your black fishnet veil over your face, because Nolan Miller, the genius responsible for defining 1980’s glamour, passed away in his sleep on Wednesday night from cancer at the age of 79. You know how your mother wore a drapey green lamé cocktail dress to her job’s Christmas party, because Alexis Carrington wore something similar on Dynasty? Nolan designed that look your mother was trying to achieve. (Oh, and yes, I was talking to myself in those last two sentences.)
Nolan’s friend and muse Joan Collins broke the sad news on Twitter about his death on Thursday morning. Joan also said a few touching words about Nolan to The Hollywood Reporter and it’s best if you picture her saying this while lying on a mountain of gowns Nolan designed for her and crying into a crystal goblet of champagne and diamonds.
“He was a huge part of my life. He was an innovator and helped define fashion through his lifelong contributions. His legacy is enormous and not only me but every one who knew him will miss the humor warmth and joy he gave generously. He was a rare gem – one of the truly good human beings in this world – and I am simply devastated he is gone.”
Nolan received 6 Emmy nominations for the costumes he designed for Dynasty. Nolan also designed costumes for T.J. Hooker, Hotel and The Colbys. Last year, he retired from QVC after designing a jewelry collection and Dynasty-inspired clothing line for them for 20 years.
Nolan Miller is now up in heaven, designing the perfect power suits for the angels to wear while they take over each other’s companies. Rest in place, Nolan Miller.
And click here for the ultimate Alexis Carrington in Nolan Miller tribute.