Founded by Herbert Gallen as a blouse company in 1949, the name Ellen Tracy was invented by Gallen. The collection eventually evolved into a bridge market line and, in 1964, Linda Allard joined the company as design director. In 1984, Allard's name was added to the label. The collection has maintained its classy appeal for the nontrendy yet fashionable customer throughout the years. Designer Charles Nolan designed the collection from 1990 to 2001. The company was sold to Liz Claiborne in 2002. In 2006, British designer George Sharp took over as vice president of design.
Historical Dictionary of the Fashion Industry. Francesca Sterlacci and Joanne Arbuckle.