west began her career spending two years designing costumes for "" (released 1916) in collaboration with french designer paul iribe. the babylonian costumes of the film were believed to have inspired fashion trends with an april 1917 "photoplay" article entitled "back to babylon for new fashions". west's impressive work led her to be given the title of "studio designer" at triangle film corporation. "intolerance" was believed to be the first hollywood film to feature costumes designed for every cast member, including extras.