Louella Ballerino (née Smith; June 4, 1900 – April 13, 1978)[1] was an American fashion designer, best known for her work in sportswear.

Louella Smith was born in Brooklyn, Iowa and her family later moved to Los Angeles.

[2] She attended the University of Southern California as an art history major, and worked with MGM costume designer André-ani.

She also studied pattern-making and tailoring at the Frank Wiggins Trade High School.

Following in the footsteps of Claire McCardell,[4] Ballerino drew inspiration from African, Latin American, Pacific, and Caribbean native styles,[3][5] and helped popularize ethnic garments such as the hopsack dress, midriff top, pollera, and dirndl in the United States.