Lynn Kohlman, a successful fashion model of the 1970s whose slightly androgynous look became an inspiration to the designers Perry Ellis and Donna Karan, died on Sept 14 2008 in Manhattan. She was 62. The cause was brain cancer, said her husband, Mark Obenhaus.

Ms.Kohlman appeared on the covers of Vogue and Elle and in advertisements for Yves Saint Laurent and Anne Klein.

Her personal style was tough and creative. She wore her hair short and her suits oversize, often paired with motorcycle boots. It was her offbeat style that attracted the attention of Mr. Ellis in the 1970s, and he often described her as a muse. Mr. Ellis once designed an entire collection based on an oversize white linen jacket Ms. Kohlman had worn and, as usual, she was the first model sent out onto the runway at that show. He gave her a position as an assistant designer at his company, even though she said she could not sketch or sew. Ms. Kohlman worked as a design executive for Perry Ellis and DKNY and later as a photographer.

american Bazaar

"Lynn Kohlman in fur" 1973 -- photo Willie Christie

Pleasurephoto

 

 

Lynn Oberhaus Kohlman, Senior Portrait 1968

oberlincollegelibrary.org

 

 

 

Woman's Journal April 1974

-originally posted by Dayrell