Slim Keith

Background

Born Mary Raye Gross in Salinas, California (her mother changed her name to Nancy), by age 22, she had appeared on the cover of Harper"s Bazaar.

Career

She is also credited with bringing Lauren Bacall to Hollywood"s attention by showing her then-husband, producer Howard Hawks, a magazine cover with Bacall"s picture on lieutenant She was also dubbed the original "California Girl", for her golden looks and athletic ability. She considered a career in opera, before deciding it was too demanding.

The last years of her life were spent pursuing travel and quiet social activities in New New York

An inveterate smoker, she died of lung cancer. "God blessed me with a happy spirit and many other gifts.

What I was not blessed with I went out and got. Sometimes the price was too high, but I"ve never been much of a bargain hunter." from Slim: Memories of a Rich and Imperfect Life (1991).

Achievements

• She graced the Best Dressed list almost annually, and in 1946 won a Neiman Marcus Fashion Award (as Mrs Leland Hayward).

Connections

Friend:

Babe Paley