Lorraine Collett

Lorraine Collett

Lorraine Collett (1902-1983) was an American model and actress, best known for her role as the original "Sun-Maid Girl" in the iconic Sun-Maid Raisins advertising campaign. Born on October 25, 1902, in Fresno, California, Collett became a symbol of the brand and played a significant role in establishing the Sun-Maid brand as a household name.

Early Life and Career

Lorraine Collett was born and raised in Fresno, California. She began her career as a model in the early 1920s, working for various local businesses and photographers. Her natural beauty and captivating presence quickly caught the attention of advertisers, leading to her breakthrough role as the Sun-Maid Girl.

In 1915, the California Associated Raisin Company (now known as Sun-Maid Growers of California) was looking for a new image to represent their brand. They held a contest to find a model who would embody the wholesome and natural qualities of their raisins. Lorraine Collett, then just 18 years old, was chosen as the winner out of hundreds of contestants.

The Sun-Maid Girl

Collett's portrayal of the Sun-Maid Girl became an instant success. The image of a young woman in a bonnet holding a tray of fresh grapes became synonymous with the Sun-Maid brand. The campaign was highly effective in promoting the company's raisins, and Collett's image appeared on various promotional materials, including packaging, billboards, and print advertisements.

The Sun-Maid Girl's popularity continued to grow throughout the 1920s and 1930s. Collett's wholesome and friendly appearance resonated with consumers, and she became a beloved figure in American advertising. Her image became so iconic that it was often imitated and parodied in popular culture.

Later Life

After several years as the Sun-Maid Girl, Lorraine Collett decided to retire from modeling and pursue other interests. She married and settled down in Fresno, California, where she lived a quiet life away from the public eye.

Despite her retirement, Collett's legacy as the original Sun-Maid Girl continued to endure. The image she helped create remains an integral part of the Sun-Maid brand to this day. The Sun-Maid Girl has undergone some updates and modifications over the years, but the essence of Collett's portrayal remains a central part of the brand's identity.

Legacy

Lorraine Collett's contribution to the Sun-Maid brand and the advertising industry as a whole cannot be overstated. Her portrayal of the Sun-Maid Girl helped establish Sun-Maid as a trusted and recognizable brand, and her image has become an enduring symbol of quality and authenticity.

Today, the Sun-Maid brand continues to thrive, and the Sun-Maid Girl remains an iconic figure in American advertising history. Lorraine Collett's impact as the original Sun-Maid Girl will always be remembered and celebrated.

See Also

• Sun-Maid
• Advertising
• Modeling