Wednesday, June 17, 2009

Celluloid Style





Mae West once commented, "The best way to learn to be a lady is to see how other ladies do it first." Whether fine-tuning your wardrobe or reinventing your personal look, observing others whom you would like to emulate is a wardrobe must. Perhaps you know an acquaintance or friend with fabulous fashion sense. Maybe you don't. If you are lucky enough to live in Hollywood, inspiration is found in droves. A visit to the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences or the Louis B. Mayer Library at AFI can give us a glimpse of real Hollywood glamour. You may find your inspiration by watching classic films.

My favorite three style icons from the past include the gamine Audrey Hepburn, the chic, natural Grace Kelly, and the minimalist classic Katharine Hepburn. Audrey Hepburn once said, “My look is attainable. Women can look like Audrey Hepburn by flipping out their hair, buying the large sunglasses, and the little sleeveless dresses.” I would add her ubiquitous ballet flats, slim black pants, a pair or two of capris, a boatneck, three-quarter sleeved sweater but you get the point. Audrey brought an uptown elan to the sixties with her slim silhouette in black, ivory, and white. Her classic makeup included groom brows, eyeliner, and a nude lipstick. She brought back the little black dress. Her look still resonates today, as featured in Gap ads several years back.

A second style star is Grace Kelly, with her chic, ladylike look. The future princess favored simple, understated lines in a monochromatic scheme. Traditional, high quality garments in a flattering tone worn with a strand of costume (or should you be so lucky!) real pearls will give you this look. Think investment pieces such as a good pair of neutral shoes and a cashmere sweater coupled with less expensive pieces in the same color family. A good haircut and classic makeup add polish to your style.

A third design legend is Katharine Hepburn. Ms. Hepburn practically invented the wide-leg, high waisted trouser which she coupled with a classic blouse, tailored jacket, and stylish loafers. Practical and sporty yet still elegant and classic, Ms. Hepburn's look works as well today as in the days of Spencer Tracy.

Hollywood's best-dressed list is influenced by stars of classic Hollywood. You can join this group by becoming a student of film and fashion. Read magazines such as In Style and adopt the timeless, elegant appearance of these screen legends.

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