From Northern Lights to Hollywood Stars

Follow the journey from Norway to Southern California of Serine Dagsland Isaksen, seamstress and dress designer for the stars, and learn about her friendship with fellow Norwegian Sonja Henie, the "Queen of the Ice."

Dagsland's daughter, Ingrid Isaksen, will share anecdotes from the professional life of her determined, energetic and charming mother. She will tell about the many kindnesses of some well-known clients, such as producer Irene Selznick (A Streetcar Named Desire); actresses Myrna Loy, Merle Oberon, Norma Shearer and Moira Shearer; and the wives of Hollywood stars Douglas Fairbanks Sr. (Lady Ashley), Douglas Fairbanks Jr. and Gregory Peck.

The seamstress' longtime association and friendship with Sonja Henie also involved her young daughter, who will tell of her mother's lessons on discretion and tact in dealing with famous clients and the press. Followers of fashion will see examples of design, fabric and some details of couturier clothing construction.

Admission is free. A post-lecture reception will be held at the Scandinavian Center located at 26 Faculty St.

Photo: Ingrid Isaksen