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Marilyn Lewis : From Hamburgers to Hemlines...She
By: Mimi Makabi

Lewis’ ambition did not diminish with the success of Hamburger Hamlet. On the contrary, her desire to become a fashion designer was further fueled. Lewis then decided it was the right time and started her couture clothing line--Cardinali. Just as she couldn't cook, she could not sew or even thread a needle, but as always, she had a clear image of what she wanted and a natural instinct of how to accomplish it. “Hamburgers to Hemlines Intertwined.” The press had a field day with those words.  Her unique designs instantly made her a favorite amongst the celebrities, and once again Lewis became a huge success. Some of her famous designs include: a metallic jumpsuit that Dyan Cannon wore on her first date with Cary Grant; a demure silk gown with ruffles that Nancy Reagan ordered in red;  and the chiffon floral dress with its matching frilly umbrella that Marlo Thomas twirls during the opening credits of the classic TV series ''That Girl”. “What people eat, and what they wear, and how they surround themselves, are all one to me. It’s a sensual peripheral talent,” says Lewis.

Lewis, the true renaissance woman that she is, continued her journey and this time opened two more successful restaurants—Kate Mantilini and Gardens on Glendon, which she still owns and operates today. She also became a movie producer and was responsible for the critically acclaimed documentaries, ''Superstar: The Life and Times of Andy Warhol” and“The Passion of Ayn Rand''.

Through it all, Lewis has not only managed to achieve great success financially, spiritually and socially, but has kept her sense ofhumility and compassion. She has made a living not only amassing a great fortune, but also giving back. Just like her many other admirable traits, being charitable comes quite naturally for her. With a big smile, she expresses, “I love, love KCET/PBS! I would rather watch PBS than anything else in the world—for relaxation, for art and culture, and for truth.” A few other charities she also feels passionate about include: THE SOUTH EAST SYMPHONY; THALIANS; ABC's; Save A Heart Ball; and The Women's Health Division at Cedars Sinai Hospital.

With all her ambition and hard work, Marilyn Lewis has not only earned the title as “the classic accomplishmentarian”, but more importantly, she has mastered her life motto… “Doing Things Right”!  Lewis concluded, “I can’t be described in one sentence. I’ve earned all the commas that continue after my name. And I’m not there for a drum roll. That’s not what I am.  All those commas…I have worked my genuine heart and soul out for!” In the end, Marilyn Lewis is truly deserving of all her ‘commas’, which makes it appropriate to add “Marilyn Lewis, Living Legend,…” to her list ! 

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