As women, there is so much we can learn from each other, not just about life, but about love, friendship and, of course, fashion! In fact, when it comes to style icons, it doesn’t get much better than these three. Still serving as role models for generations far beyond their own, their advice is truly evergreen. They are a wonderful example of how we can achieve anything we put our minds to… while still wearing the perfect shade of lipstick.
3 Style Icons to Admire
Style Icon 1: Elizabeth Taylor
“Pour yourself a drink, put on some lipstick, and pull yourself together.” ~Elizabeth Taylor
Elizabeth Taylor certainly knew how to wear bold lipstick. And let’s not even talk about the power she wielded with those dark, immaculately shaped brows, framing, of course, eyes that were amongst the prettiest Hollywood has ever seen.
Taylor dressed in a way that embraced her femininity, always. Her chosen silhouettes often emphasized her waist and bust. (In fact, she was still working that plunging neckline well into her 70s and why not, darlings?!)
More importantly, Taylor campaigned tirelessly for HIV/AIDS awareness & fundraising as well as battled a brain tumor in the 1990s with courage. This was a fierce woman who, undoubtedly, understood that life must go on. Putting on her lipstick and pulling herself together was something that Taylor did with impeccable style. I have always admired her for that.
Style Icon 2: Audrey Hepburn
“For beautiful eyes, look for the good in others; for beautiful lips, speak only words of kindness; and for poise, walk with the knowledge that you are never alone.” ~Audrey Hepburn
One of my favorite style icons, Audrey Hepburn made white-collared shirts, pixie cuts, and large brim hats classically stylish. She introduced the world to the concept that beauty and style can be unique and not cookie cutter: a simple dress can stun, white gloves up the elegance of almost any outfit, and red lips change everything.
Hepburn also spent much of her later life devoted to UNICEF as a Goodwill Ambassador. And, after two failed marriages, Hepburn met and maintained a relationship with Robert Wolders until her death. She called the nine years she spent with Wolders the happiest years of her life, teaching us an important lesson about love… it is never too late to find it, nor too late to hold onto it.
Style Icon 3: Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis
“An aim in life is the only fortune worth finding.” ~Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis
Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis is perhaps best known for her impeccable fashion sense, Camelot lifestyle, and personal tragedies. She taught us that white pants, over-sized sunglasses, and pearls are always glamorous.
She was the picture of a loving wife and mother. Widowed twice, Onassis showed us that it is never too late to search for personal fulfillment. A lover of literature, she went on to become a book editor late in life. She also worked tirelessly as a preservationist, working to preserve and protect America’s cultural heritage.
The notable results of her hard work include Lafayette Square in Washington, D.C. and Grand Central Terminal, New York City’s historic railroad station. But perhaps most importantly, she modeled to generations of women what it looks like to be a loyal and loving mother, daughter, grandmother and, of course, wife.
What Style Icons Do You Know in Life?
We admire iconic figures like Elizabeth Taylor, Audrey Hepburn, and Jackie O, but let’s not forget the everyday women in our lives who also serve as beacons of wisdom when it comes to love, relationships, and style. These women may not grace the pages of history books, but would you not agree that their influence is profound and enduring?
Our mothers, grandmothers, sisters, friends, and mentors are unsung heroines. They teach us lessons about love and relationships through their actions, support, and unwavering love. Their ability to nurture, care, and show resilience, even when the going gets tough, teaches us about the power of compassion. Not to mention loyalty, and the importance of fostering deep and meaningful connections.
We encounter women daily who contribute to our understanding of style. Their unique fashion choices, personal quirks, and confidence inspire us to embrace our individuality express ourselves through clothing and accessories. They remind us that style is a form of self-expression, and true beauty comes from the authenticity of being you.
As we celebrate the iconic style of these legendary women, let us also recognize and honor the remarkable women in our own lives. They are the living embodiments of love, grace, and style. Their influence shapes us in ways that are just as enduring as any Hollywood legend. So, cherish the lessons they impart, for they show us of the art of living beautifully.
What style icons do you most admire? Comment below, I would love to hear your thoughts!
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Dear Honey,
It was wonderful to see my favorite icons grace your article. I hadn’t thought of them in such a long time and was pleasantly reminded how much they influenced my life. Many years ago I was even told I looked like Elizabeth Taylor. It was nice to be reminded of those blessings because it’s so easy to forget.
Thank you!
Susan
Always remember…to remember. Warmly, Honey
JackieO believed in giving back and helping others, too. I remember a NYC friend who was the same pants size as she. When JackieO donated her tailored slacks to a NYC charity thrift store, my friend was there to buy them so she was always well turned out for much less! She benefited from JackieO’s largesse! So remember to always donate your gently used clothing to charity thrift stores as there is always someone who is in need of them who may be on a tighter budget than you. And you are helping to recycle and save, too!
I do, always. Honey
My current style icons are my late Mother, Linda V. Wright and Victoria Beckham. And, of course, Susan Honey Good!
Thank you Sandi! So glad you are with us at HG. Warmly, Honey
I loved Jackie O. style and also Audrey Hepburn. My Icon now is Dominque Sashe, she is gorgeous, very stylish all of her clothes. I know I am older than Dominque but she is still very stylish.
It is fun to admire others. I met Jackie O and had a conversation with her in a shell shop in Florida many years ago. She was far more beautiful in her photos. I applaud Helen Mirren. I saw her accept an award some years back. Warmly, Honey