Google honors the 116th birthday of Altina 'Tina' Schinasi, an American designer celebrated for her creation of the iconic 'cat-eye' eyeglass frame.

 Born on this day in 1907 in Manhattan, New York, to immigrant parents, Schinasi's artistic journey took her from the bustling streets of Manhattan to the vibrant art scene of Paris, where she pursued her passion for painting after completing her high school education.

While working as a window dresser for multiple stores along Fifth Avenue in New York City, she honed her artistic skills at The Art Students League and had the privilege of collaborating with artistic legends like Salvador Dalí and George Grosz, whose influence played a significant role in shaping her creative vision.

During her time as a window display designer, Schinasi had a groundbreaking idea for the "cat-eye" eyeglass frame. Observing that women's eyeglasses were limited to round frames with uninspired designs, she set out to create a fresh and unique option for women.

Inspired by the captivating shape of Harlequin masks worn during the Carnevale festival in Venice, Italy, she envisioned eyeglass frames with pointed edges that would accentuate and flatter the wearer's face. Despite facing initial rejections from major manufacturers who deemed her creation too unconventional, her perseverance paid off when a local shop owner recognized the potential of her design and secured an exclusive agreement for six months. The Harlequin eyeglasses quickly gained popularity, becoming a fashion sensation among women in the US during the late 1930s and 1940s.

Schinasi's innovative design earned her significant recognition, including the prestigious Lord & Taylor American Design Award in 1939. Esteemed publications like Vogue and Life also acknowledged her contributions to the world of fashion.

Beyond her design achievements, Schinasi explored filmmaking, producing a compelling documentary titled "George Grosz' Interregnum" about her former teacher, the celebrated artist George Grosz. The film garnered acclaim, receiving an Academy Award nomination and winning first place at the Venice Film Festival in 1960.

Throughout her life, she continued to delve into new artistic pursuits, including writing her memoir, "The Road I Have Traveled," offering a glimpse into her extraordinary journey. Additionally, she generously volunteered as an art therapist, using her creative talents to help others.

Today, Altina Schinasi's cat-eye design continues to influence fashion accessory trends worldwide, cementing her legacy as a visionary designer. Google celebrates her lasting impact and pays homage to her artistic ingenuity through the Google Doodle.