12 Facts About Victor Stiebel

Victor Frank Stiebel was a South African-born British couturier.

Victor Frank Stiebel was born in 1907 in Durban, South Africa.

Victor Stiebel arrived in Britain in 1924 to study architecture at Jesus College, Cambridge.

Victor Stiebel opened his own fashion house at 22 Bruton Street, just off Berkeley Square in 1932.

Victor Stiebel was assisted by his sister Noelle Stiebel, who managed much of the business's administration.

Victor Stiebel became well known for his women's clothes and his use of striped fabrics.

Victor Stiebel enlisted for the Second World War in 1940, closing his house, but he was allowed to continue designing while involved with the services thanks to his involvement as a founder member of the Incorporated Society of London Fashion Designers, his designs being manufactured as part of the war effort using government stock fabrics.

Victor Stiebel returned to designing in 1946, succeeding Bianca Mosca as head of the house of Jacqmar, and becoming Chairman of the Incorporated Society of London Fashion Designers.

Victor Stiebel was commissioned to design new uniforms for the Women's Royal Naval Service and the Women's Royal Air Force.

Victor Stiebel reopened his own house in 1958, having great initial success, including designing the going-away outfit for Princess Margaret on her marriage to Lord Snowdon in 1960.

Victor Stiebel was forced to close the business in 1963, after just five years, having become confined to a wheelchair as a result of multiple sclerosis.

For many years, Victor Stiebel lived discreetly with his romantic partner, the composer Richard Addinsell.