Don Loper

Don Loper (1906-1972) was an American costume and necktie designer, screenwriter, choreographer, associate producer, actor, and assistant to MGM musicals producer Arthur Freed. Born on April 29, 1906, in Toledo, Ohio, USA as Lincoln George Hardloper, Loper began his career as a dancer and was partnered with Ginger Rogers in the film Lady in the Dark (1944). He is also known for introducing Judy Garland to her future husband, director Vincente Minnelli. Loper's works, including designs for stars like Ella Fitzgerald and Lucille Ball, are featured in the Los Angeles County Museum of Art and the California African American Museum. He appeared as himself in an episode of I Love Lucy titled 'The Fashion Show' in 1955. Loper died on November 22, 1972, in Santa Monica, California, USA.More