Home › Labels

Norman Norell Labels: History and How to Date Them

Last reviewed 2026-10-04 by the AntiqueCostume editorial team · Sources · How we research

Appraise a photo of yours, free.

Contents
  1. Company history
  2. Label timeline
  3. What it helps date
  4. Values

Norman Norell (1900 to 1972) was one of the leading American designers of the mid-century. His label is unusually easy to date because the name on it changed with each business: Traina-Norell before 1960, Norman Norell from 1960, and Norman Norell by Tassell after his death.

Company history

According to the Vintage Fashion Guild (VFG), Norell worked with Hattie Carnegie from 1928 until 1940. In 1941 he partnered with backer Anthony Traina to form Traina-Norell, where he stayed until Traina retired in 1960. He then formed his own company, Norman Norell. He was known for the waistless chemise, "mermaid" sequin sheaths, the pussycat bow and precise tailoring in fine imported fabrics. After Norell's death in 1972, Gustave Tassell took over the house, which closed in 1976.

Label timeline

Label or clueApproximate datesWhat it tells you
Hattie Carnegie label (no Norell credit)1928 to 1940His Carnegie designs carry her label, not his
Traina-Norell1941 to 1960All his own-name work before 1960
Norman Norell1960 to 1972His independent company
Norman Norell by Tassell1972 to 1976Designed after his death by Gustave Tassell

What it helps date

  • Traina-Norell fits the 1940s and 1950s, where our hubs list him among high-end American ready-to-wear designers.
  • A Norman Norell label alone means 1960 or later: see the 1960s hub.
  • Check the label against construction for any famous name: designer label fakes.

Values

The 1950s hub counts 9 Norell lots at Augusta Auctions from $125 to $2,437, median $375. Prices are estimates as of 2026.

check sold prices for norman norell vintage dress on eBay

Sources

Not sure what you have? Appraise a photo

Guides that mention Norman Norell

Related

Appraise a photo