Fred Astaire as Ted Hanover (George Washington) in 'Holiday Inn' Designed by Edith Head

Period costume, [C002-1/7] cream satin tailcoat, large turned up cuffs, flap pockets, ornamented with gold bullion cording throughout and with appliqued suede leaves covered with gold bullion foil, dotted gold sequins (United Costumer’s label inscribed “565A- Fred Astaire," Chest 37 ½”); [C002-2/7] beige and gold thread faille long vest, flap pockets ornamented with bullion cord trim, dotted with gold sequins, seven gold cut out buttons ornamented with clear sequins and white cabochon stone at center (United Costumers label inscribed “565B Fred Astaire- Chest 37); [C002-3/7] beige silk satin breeches, five gold buttons at leg, gold buckle with rhinestones (United Costumer’s label inscribed “Fred Astaire, Waist 28 ½"); [C002-4/7] & [C002-5/7] pair of beige silk stockings, gold bullion embroidery at side, dotted with clear rhinestones; [C002-6/ 7] beige lace dickey; [C002-7/7] beige wool tri-corn hat ornamented with gold bullion braid and white feathers (not worn in film).

"Starring Fred Astaire," Stanley Green/Burt Goldblatt, Dodd, Mead & Co., 1973, Pg. 238-239 (Photo). "Together Again," Stories of the Great Hollywood Teams, Garson Kanin, Doubleday & Company, Inc., 1981, Pg. 162 (Photo)

The costumes in the dance number “I Can’t Tell a Lie”, designed by Edith Head was a homage to the 18th century period costumes of the founding fathers.

Fred Astaire started his career as part of a brother and sister act. The response to his early screen tests were not favorable, stating that he was short, balding, not that good looking, couldn’t sing and couldn’t act, BUT he could dance. He was partnered with some of Hollywood’s famous actresses and dancers and created some of the most remembered dance numbers of all times. He went on to become the man in top hat and tails and the most influential dancer that paved the way for the art form for dancers to come.

“Holiday Inn” is often overshadowed by the remake of the film in 1954 “White Christmas” and deals with a musical act that turns a farm into a Holiday Inn and provides the entertainment. It is a rather sappy Hollywood holiday fare, but it is entertaining and puts to good use the dancing talents of Fred Astaire.