Photo: Gossip

Mary Beth Patterson, aka Beth Ditto, fronts indie rock dance band Gossip. Beth’s uncompromising, in-your-face attitude and physical presentation has earned her a special place in the hearts of millions. In a little over three years, Beth went from a Arkansas-born small town gal to the sole performer at an elite Fendi after-party. Her lovable personality, bold fashion, and talent culminate to create one of the most iconic musicians of our time.

Despite her obvious influence on fellow fashionistas, Beth remains humble about her outlandish aesthetic and awe-inspiring presentation. In the Wall Street Journal post “Beth Ditto: Fashion’s New Darling?” Beth said, “I’m not really a fashion icon. I wouldn’t go that far.” Beth’s humble nature and down to earth personality only make her all the more lovable. Her grounded sense of self has earned a cult following of fans, staggering record sales, and a few noteworthy awards, such as New Musical Express magazine’s award for the Coolest Person in Rock (2006), and Glamour magazine’s award for International Artist of the Year (2008). As if musical success and international recognition wasn’t enough, Beth’s also added fashion designer to her admirable CV. In the summer of 2009, she designed a line for a UK retailer specializing in women’s clothing sized 14 to 32.

Photo: Gossip

Beth’s passion for fashion has resulted in a handful of legendary outfits, and also a few controversies — but what true style icon hasn’t run into the occasional crowd of opposition?

Photo: Fictional Future at Flickr

In one of my favorite Gossip songs, “On the Prowl,” Beth’s soulful voice croons, “I’ll give you something that you’ll never forget.” She lives up to that promise with a never-ending playful presentation of alluring ensembles, which only add to her fabulous feminist mystique!

Photo: Gossip

What do you think, readers? Is Beth an example of iconic style? Let us know below!

Photo: Bollywood.ac

When you hear the words, Miss Universe, what do you think of? Do you envision a stately judge asking an enthusiastic, nervous young woman, “How do you plan to change the world?” Do you picture of the awe-inspiring Miss Universe crown, bejeweled by hundreds of diamonds and precious pearls?

Keep reading to learn what Sushmita Sen has to do with the Miss Universe Pageant…

Photo: Movies.ndtv.com

The very first Miss Universe Pageant was held in Long Beach, California in 1952. In 1977, twenty-five years after the pageant’s inception, the first woman of color, Janelle Commissiong, was crowned Miss Universe. Forty-two years after the pageant began, in 1994, Sushmita Sen became the first Indian woman to win the competition.

Photo: Wordsndreamz.wordpress.com

Sushmita Sen, or simply “Sush,” is not your typical beauty queen-turned-actress. As the daughter of a former Indian Air Force Wing Commander and a fashion and jewelry designer, Sushmita was bound to possess sophisticated style. After studying at the Air Force Golden Jubilee Institute in Delhi Cantonment, the Hyderbad, India-born starlet made her debut in 1994 as a fresh faced model and aspiring beauty queen with a penchant for writing poetry. Not only was Sush the first Indian woman to be crowned Miss Universe — she was also the second youngest woman to earn that title, at the tender age of eighteen!

Photos: Zimbio.com, Extramirchi.com

During the 1994 Miss Universe competition, Sush placed second in the swimsuit competition, fifth in the interview competition, and third in the evening gown competition. As a final contestant, odds were stacked against Sush’ victory. However, her dazzling smile, bubbly personality, inspiring intelligence, and overwhelming personable nature won the judges’ votes!

Photo: Bharatwaves.com

At one point in the competition, Sushmita was asked what she would do if she had the time and money to embark on a great adventure. Sush expressed her desire to “do something for the children.” Today, Sushmita is a loving single mother of two adopted daughters, Renee and Alisah.

Photo: Gontry.com

In addition to raising two children, Sush is a prominent Bollywood actress. She won a Filmfare Award in 2000 for her leading role in Biwi No. 1. She’s also the proud recipient of a Star Screen Award, an IIFA Award, and a Zee Cine Award. Sush’s polished panache stems from her effortless confidence. Whether she’s wearing a traditional sari, or donning an edgy ensemble of all-black, Sushmita Sen never fails to inspire millions with her savvy style, hardworking attitude, and loving personality.

Photo: Festivalofworldcultures.com

You may not recognize the name or image above, but I’m fairly certain you know who Jane Birkin is. Perhaps you’re a fan of her daughter, Charlotte Gainsbourg’s latest electronic pop album, IRM, which was produced by Beck and received rave reviews across the board. Maybe you’ve seen her youngest daughter, Lou Doillon, posing for a Givenchy ad in the pages of Vogue magazine. Where did these two savvy style stars get their poise and panache? Why, their gorgeous mother, of course!

After the break, learn more about the woman whose style and candor earned her a namesake Hermès bag.

Photo: Digilander.libero.it

A few summers ago, I dabbled with the idea of strictly listening to French music of the 1960s. Why not, I thought to myself — everything sounds better and ridiculously more romantic in French. The soothing vocals of Edith Piaf and Françoise Hardy were ecstasy to my ears. Eventually, a friend recommended the albums of Serge Gainsbourg, and in turn, I learned of the beautiful Jane Birkin.

Photo: Artemis-art.net, Last.fm

Jane Mallory Birkin was born to an actress and a Royal Navy lieutenant-commander in 1946. During the 1960s mod phenomenon known as “Swinging London,” Jane emerged as a model/actress in the 1966 film, Blowup. After her cinematic debut, Jane went on to audition for a lead actress role in the French film, Slogan. Despite her lack of fluency in French, Jane’s striking beauty and alluring presence got her the part. She co-starred in Slogan alongside Serge Gainsbourg, sang a duet with him on the film’s theme song, and the rest is…well, history!

Photo: Keepfeeling.wordpress.com

Jane’s romantic relationship and artistic collaboration with Serge continued throughout the 70’s. Together, they released two albums, duetted on an especially controversial, memorable song, “Je t’aime… moi non plus,” and worked on Serge’s directorial debut film. In 1973, Jane released her first solo album, Di doo dah, and has gone on to release nineteen other albums since then. Her latest album, au palace, was released in 2009 as a live recording. She continues to make music today, collaborating with everyone from Feist to Johnny Marr of The Smiths. As a budding female musician in the 70’s, Jane’s talent and ultra-chic style cultivated a cult following of fans.

Photo: Toolegit2quit.wordpress.com, Bedazzled.blogs.com

As a young woman, Jane’s iconic style transcended time to become the quintessential look of today’s “It Girl.” Super long locks with eyebrow-grazing straight bangs, cat eye make-up application, printed minis that border on being scandalously short, and a cultured attitude that’s an ideal mix of confidence, sex appeal, innocence, and apt acumen, made up Jane’s polished persona. Today, celebrities, heiresses, and muses all over the world channel that same style, both intrinsically and aesthetically, as a subconscious homage to the bewitching Jane Birkin.

Photo: Style.com

So, you may be wondering why the French high fashion house, Hermès, named their five-figure, iconic leather bag after a young English woman. The story goes a little something like this — in 1984, on a flight en route from Paris to London, Miss Birkin was seated next to Hermès CEO Jean-Louis Dumas. Sometime during the flight, Jane took out and opened her Hermès datebook, which immediately released a number of notes, receipts, etc. onto the floor. Dumas insisted on taking the datebook, and returned it to Jane a few weeks later with a pocket sewn onto the back, which has since become a standard Hermès feature. After that, Jane met with Dumas to discuss her difficulty in finding a well-made leather weekender bag. She went on to describe her ideal weekender — which ended up on her doorstep a few weeks later, in the form of the Hermès Birkin bag!

Photo: Loudpixels.net

Jane’s intelligence, philanthropic nature, and contagious smile has led to her involvement in a number of charitable causes. Jane worked with Amnesty International on immigrant welfare and AIDS issues, in additional to traveling extensively to third world countries to work with children. She was awarded an OBE, or Officer of The Most Excellent Order of the British Empire, and a French Ordre National du Mérite for her humanitarian interests. In addition to being a jet-setting philanthropist, Jane continues to epitomize effortlessly cool style.

Jane’s effervescent personality, unabashed beauty, brains, and strong sense of individual style make her a true fashion icon. She’s the definition of graceful aging, and a true inspiration for sexually empowered, intelligent young women everywhere!

Image Above: chloevanparis.blogspot.com

Everyday at work, I delight in seeing emails from fellow Fashion Writer, Julie. Julie’s email signature is complete with her name, official job title, a link to ModCloth’s Twitter account, and a simple, six word quote from Edna Woolman Chase that brings me joy each and every time I read it.

“Fashion is general. Style is individual.”

After the jump, learn more about the woman whose career in journalism and individual sense of style changed the world of fashion today.

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Before Anna and Grace, there was Edna. Edna Woolman Chase, the iconic editor in chief of Vogue magazine for close to forty years (1914 – 1952), possessed an innate sense of impeccable style, which percolated onto Vogue’s pages. Edna’s personal panache turned Vogue from a modest weekly fashion newspaper to the internationally respected glossy periodical that it is today.

Image Above: stylebyme.net

Edna’s rise to editor plays out a bit like a fairytale. Born and raised in Asbury Park, New Jersey, Edna Chase moved to New York City as a young woman hoping to get her big break. She found it, but in the unlikeliest of places – addressing envelopes in the circulation department of Vogue magazine. Her hardworking attitude and enthusiasm garnered the attention of Vogue’s second editor in chief, who frequently asked for Edna’s opinion on layout design and content.

Images Above: vogue.com

In 1909, Conde Nast took over Vogue magazine. Shortly thereafter, Nast appointed Enda as managing editor. By 1914, Edna was named Vogue’s editor in chief, the second female to acquire that position since the magazine’s inception in 1892.

Image Above: life.com

Under Enda’s reign, Vogue flourished from a surge in subscriptions, especially during the years of the Depression and World War II. American women took refuge from the harsh realities of their everyday life in the picturesque pages of Vogue, thanks to Edna’s creative vision. Edna’s understanding of the female form, combined with her unique sense of aesthetic presentation, allowed for Vogue to bloom as an inspiring monthly publication.

Images Above: vogue.com

Edna disliked open-toed shoes, and she preferred the styles of the Victorian era over any other. Her style was sophisticated, timeless, and attainable on a light budget, especially during the years of the Depression. Edna had a penchant for hues of blue, which dominated her wardrobe and complemented her kind brown eyes. She was a tastemaker, and as a respectable fashion professional who started out as a young Jewish girl from New Jersey, she took great pride in her own sense of style, and her ability to forecast likable fashion trends.

“The combination of fine taste and sound judgment is what counts, ” said Edna. “Taste may be a sort of instinct – good judgment is the flowering of sound thinking.”

Image Above: life.com

It only seems appropriate to end this post with another EWC quote, which challenges the dichotomy between fashion and style yet again. “Fashion can be bought. Style one must possess.” Well said, Edna, well said.

I know it’s cliche of me to say, but honestly— Grace Jones is a woman who needs no introduction. The former Bond girl is internationally known as a respectable actress, a provocative model, and a talented musician. However, despite her long list of impressive credentials, Grace’s movies and albums pale in comparison to her inspiring sense of personal style and her penchant for over-the-top, excessively amazing stage costumes.

Read more about Grace’s style and extravagant presence after the jump.

[Image Above: http://fashion-stylist.net]

The Jamaica-born starlet began her career in entertainment as a theater student at Syracuse University. In 1984’s Conan the Destroyer, starring Arnold Schwarzenegger, Grace played the role of Zula, launching her cinematic career and establishing Grace’s niche in sci-fi/fantasy acting. This led to three consecutive Saturn Awards nominations, beginning in 1985. Grace’s gravitation toward sci-fi and fantasy roles is actively reinforced by her choice of futuristic, avant-garde ensembles. Grace is most notably known for extraordinary headgear, a la Isabella Blow, and scintillating silhouettes, which she pulls off with flying colors, thanks to an undeniable presence and years of training as a model.

[Images Above: nohway.wordpress.com, hardcandymusic.com]

Grace’s powerful presence is mirrored in her multi-faceted and productive career. Grace signed with Island Records and released the album “Portfolio” in 1977. Following the success of her dance club hits, Grace released an album a year until 1982! Her reign as the Queen of Disco during the late 70s and early 80s garnered international praise, a distinct cult following, and the admiration of Andy Warhol, who photographed Grace extensively.

[Images Above: fashionbombdaily.com, thefashioninsider.com]

After a brief hiatus from music, Grace followed-up her impressive six albums in as many years streak with 1985’s “Slave to the Rhythm,” 1986’s “Inside Story,” 1989’s “Bulletproof Heart,” and 2008’s “Hurricane.” I attribute her musical success to three different factors: an undeniably energetic and entertaining stage presence, a personal panache and natural beauty that’s unmatched — even to this day, and a totally unique contralto vocal style.

[Image Above: bondgirls.org.uk]

At 5 feet, 10.5 inches, Grace’s statuesque figure matches her dominating sense of personal style. What I love most about Grace’s enthusiastic presentation is her ability to pull off head-to-toe black patent leather, outrageous hoods, a Flat Top hairstyle, ornate masks, etc. No matter what she is placed in, Grace never appears to be insecure, uncomfortable, or out of her element — in fact, she seems most at ease on stage, in a full body paint ensemble, resulting from a notable collaboration with Keith Haring, or an outlandish sequined bowler hat.

[Image Above: lionessintheconcretejungle.blogspot.com]

Grace is often known for pioneering a severe androgynous look in the early 1980s, which continues to percolate into today’s trendsetting styles. At age 61, she continues to break fashion boundaries and inspire millions. Her lack of consideration for current trends, or overarching ideals about how a woman should dress and behave, mixed with her inspiring sense of personal strength and confidence is what makes Grace Jones an authentic, and personal favorite, style icon.

[Image Above: blogs.laweekly.com]

Amsterdam-based duo Viktor & Rolf opened their Fall 2003 RTW show with their androgynous muse, Tilda Swinton. The copper-haired British actress, whom you may know as The White Witch from The Chronicles of Narnia films,   promenaded down the runway while a soundtrack featuring her own voice echoed above, advising surveyors to “follow your own path.” After Tilda’s grand entrance, a series of “Tilda’s” followed her path down the catwalk. Each runway model was transformed into a Swinton clone – their dyed, deep ginger hair was severely pulled back, their complexions were powdered to a pure shade of ivory, their lips were soft pink and insignificant, and their cheekbones possessed just the tiniest tint of rouge. They wore variations on Tilda’s pantsuit ensemble, which represented not only Viktor & Rolf’s design, but also Tilda’s sophisticated, edgy, terrifically tailored style.

Keep reading to learn more about Tilda’s style, and her obvious influence on the world of fashion.

[Images Above: style.com]

In an article from Style.com, Viktor Horsting said of their 2003 RTW show, “We wanted to do all our signatures, with the menswear and the couture influences, for an ageless modern woman.”

[Images Above: stylefrizz.com]

Ageless modern woman is an apt generalization of Tilda Swinton, whose bizarre style, personal life, acting roles, and artistic endeavors render her a true enigma. The 5-foot, 10-inch statuesque actress, born into a patrician military family, graduated from Cambridge University with a degree in Social and Political Sciences. From there, Tilda developed her interest and undeniable talent in acting, in addition to cultivating a distinct, fashion-forward style.

[Images Above (from left): nicksflickpicks.com, torontolife.com]

In addition to noteworthy style and Oscar-worthy performances, Tilda’s also known to be a patron of the arts. In 1995, Tilda collaborated with English installation artist and sculptor Cornelia Parker to create a performance piece entitled The Maybe. Shown at the Serpentine Gallery, this exhibit literally showcased Tilda as a work of art. For seven consecutive days, eight hours a day, Tilda was on display in a raised glass casket. Motionless, eyes closed, perhaps asleep at some points, Tilda demonstrated her dedication to art to over 22,000 gallery attendees – and, as a result, she contracted shingles! C’est la vie.

[Images Above (from left): projectrungay.blogspot.com, inspirethestarling.blogspot.com]

When she’s not on duty as a mother, raising a set of twins (Xavier and Honor) in rural Scotland, Tilda can typically be found on the red carpet. As an international arthouse and mainstream film star, Tilda is expected to attend numerous red carpet events – a fact I’m ridiculously thankful for, considering her impeccable styling choices and willingness to dress differently from the norm. When I see photos of Tilda at film premiers or other public events, I’m continually amazed by her ability to pull off just about anything. Whether she’s sporting an ethereal, floor-length pale pink Thakoon gown (above, far left), a minimal white Jil Sander sheath dress (above, center) , or a haute couture Galliano for Dior visual masterpiece (above, far right), Tilda never ceases to look cool and collected. As a platinum blonde, brunette, or natural redhead, Tilda could very well be the definition of chic.

[Images Above (from left): kenyasstyle.com,altfg.com]

Tilda’s eclectic, high-end, original style is heightened by a presence that seems to be one part fragility mixed with undeniable strength and confidence. She never seems uncomfortable in an edgy formal gown, or out of place in an ensemble that features a silhouette most actresses wouldn’t dream of donning. Her penchant for quirky, atypical pieces make her all the more charming and inspirational. With each ensemble, she seems to be telling admiring onlookers, “Dress for yourself and no one else. You’re a work of art.”

[Images Above (from left): gawker.com, looseleaftigers.blogspot.com, contactmusic.com]

In my humble opinion, a true style icon not only looks incredibly immaculate, with a flawless, often innate taste in clothing and accessories, but should also possess a certain power of undeniable influence. I consider Tilda Swinton’s impressive acting CV sub-par to her significance as a style icon. We’re talking about a woman who has not only topped innumerable Best Dressed Lists, but also inspired an entire runway collection of one of today’s most well-regarded, innovative designers. Yes, that was way back when in 2003, but Tilda’s individual sense of style continues to trickle its unique quirks into fashion today. Most recently, Tilda’s signature tee shirt was used in a Paris Haute Couture collection. Oh, and she’s also the new face of Pringle of Scotland. All in a day’s work for one of our generation’s most unique and alluring style celebrities.

[Images Above (from left): projectrungay.blogspot.com, mystyle.com, fabsugar.com]

*Note: Some claim that Tilda was the first celebrity to sport YSL’s Spring 2009 RTW cage shoes, as shown in the far left photo above. If this doesn’t instantly ensure your dedication to all things Tilda, I’m not sure what will.

Move over, Mary-Kate and Ashley! Although I love your work and style, I often feel like you two have been donned the “Chicest Siblings” of my generation without a fair fight. For the sake of fashion-ocracy, I am taking this opportunity to pay homage to another pair of trendsetting sisters. Angela and Vanessa Simmons seem to have savvy style in their genes, thanks to their music legend father, Rev. Run (known to rock a leather jacket and fedora like no other), hip hop mogul uncle, Russell Simmons (often seen in a dapper suit), and fashion model/designer aunt, Kimora Lee (who, at 13-years old, walked the Chanel runway). With an innate, inherited sense of fashion, it’s no wonder that these trendsetting sisters have established themselves as prominent style inspirations for stylish women everywhere!

After the jump, read more about Angela, Vanessa, their projects, and of course, their fabulous flair for fashion…

Vanessa Simmons, the eldest daughter of Rev. Run, is an alumni of St. John’s University, where she pursued a degree in Communications. The college grad is also a commercial model (she’s represented by the prestigious Ford Models agency and has already nabbed a triumphant Verizon campaign) and an aspiring actress. If you’re a fan of soaps, you’re probably familiar with Vanessa’s work as Lola on CBS’s “Guiding Light.” She’s also a star in the world of reality TV, as she appeared in the first four seasons of MTV’s “Run’s House” and continues to work on MTV’s “Daddy’s Girls,” set to premiere it’s third season sometime in 2010. At 26-years-old, Vanessa has already established herself as an extraordinarily successful businesswoman, entrepreneur, and fashion forward style icon.

Vanessa’s self-proclaimed personal style is “classic chic with an edgy twist.” Her hair style changes as often as her wardrobe, proving Vanessa has her finger on the pulse of fashion, and plans on keeping it there. I admire her choice in formal wear, which seems to always be contingent on a classic silhouette made interesting through the use of fun colors and dazzling accessories.

In regards to her personal fashion icon, SATC’s Carrie Bradshaw, Vanessa said, “She is very eclectic and fearless with her choices. She makes fashion look fun, which is what it should be.” I think I can safely say that Vanessa also  makes fashion look fun, through her choice of effortlessly elegant evening gowns and perfectly coordinated, tailored separates.

Although she’s four years younger than Vanessa, Angela Simmons has never taken on the role as the juvenile sibling. Angela graduated from the High School of Fashion Industries with an impressive 4.0 streak. After enrolling in the Fashion Institute of Technology, Angela moved on to concentrate on personal endeavors, which proved to be highly lucrative. She was the executive editor of Angela’s Rundown, a subsidiary publication of Word Up! magazine wherein Angela gave fashion tips and advice, in addition to covering music and style trends. And, as if appearing in two reality TV shows alongside her sister Vanessa weren’t enough, Angela launched her first R&B single, “Center of Attention,” in the summer of 2008.

When it comes to personal style, Angela keeps things fresh, youthful, and ultimately, quite fun. She’s a fan of minis, strapless dresses, vibrant colors, and buoyant accessories. “What’s fashion without accessorizing? My favorite pieces are hard to call, but I wear lots of rings. Big ones. They always make me feel complete, ” said Angela.

What I love most about Angela’s style is her knack for turning simple silhouettes into showstopping ensembles, effectively executed through her willingness to be bold and playful while maintaining an austere level of sophistication. She’s not afraid to mix things up with a pair of hot pink party pumps or a leopard print bustier, and I can’t help but give her props for always looking pretty and polished!

Together, these beautiful sisters are a dynamic force, relying on their chic intuition, flawless taste, plentiful business knowledge, and celeb-infested familial influences to guarantee their place in the world of fashion for years to come. They recently launched an LA-based shoe and clothing line, Pastry, which has been chronicled in their popular reality series, “Daddy’s Girl’s.” I really love each girl’s individual style, whether they’re dolled up for a red carpet event or simply channeling “comfortable chic” in the sunny streets of LA, but what I love most about this dapper duo is their unrelenting ambition. It’s totally empowering to see two successful young women tackling financial obstacles, minding societal pressures, and dealing with the many other challenges that go along with starting a business in order to achieve their highest dreams. In addition to starting their own business, both Angela and Vanessa worked with the Girl Scout organization in November of 2007 to promote the Girl Scouts’ entrepreneurship and financial literacy programs, proving that their celebrity lifestyle has in no way limited their understanding of the trials and tribulations which face teen girls everywhere!

Sophisticated socialite. Designer muse. Mother of three. Noteworthy collector of haute couture. Model. Modern heiress of an aristocrat Irish Protestant family. Journalist. Stylist extraordinaire. Philanthropist. On-and-off-again girlfriend of a married French philosopher. Undisputed style icon. Daphne Suzannah Diana Joan Guinness was born into a life of luxury. Now, at age 41 (or is it 42? “I don’t really care,” said Guinness), the tiny, trendsetting fashionista known for her love of towering stilettos and showstopping accessories is at the top of her game with the recent launch of her eponymous perfume, Daphne, and a quickly expanding troop of style admirers who, in total, may outnumber the amount of black garments in her multiple closets.

Keep reading to learn more about Daphne Guinness’ engaging ensembles and innovative style…

Daphne Guinness was born in 1967 to brewery heir Jonathan Guinness and French model Suzanne Lisney. She spent her childhood living in both England and Ireland, with plenty of vacations to Spain. As a youth, her natural blonde hair lightened to its current shade of white as she bathed in the ample sunshine of a small Catalan fishing village. While on summer holiday, Guinness was graced with the casual company of Salvador Dali, Marcel Duchamp, and Man Ray, among many other revolutionary artists who frequented that same seaside village.

Guinness’ exposure to innovative artists of the 1970s is partially responsible for her inclination toward the avant-garde, and her undeniably chic taste. When asked how she developed such a distinct personal style, Guinness replied, “I grew up in an artists’ colony near Barcelona with Salvador Dali and the Surrealists, so my dress sense is very colored by my youth. Everybody knew that Dali was the most crazy – you’d go to his house and he would have lobsters in his pool.” Dali, and other boundary-breaking artists who mingled with Guinness during her formative years taught her that being “crazy” was, well, pretty cool, especially in terms of individual appearance. She learned that unabashed self-expression was pertinent to her individual happiness, which she cultivated by developing a truly original style aesthetic.

Growing up, Guinness lived a gilded life as a member of the aforementioned aristocratic Irish dynasty. She briefly studied art at Slade, developed an affliction for classical music, and tinkered with the idea of becoming an opera singer. However, these aspirations soon faded when, at a mere 19 years-old, Guinness married Spyros Niarchos, an heir of the shipping magnate Stavros. Niarchos and Guinness traveled the world a thousand times over, while Guinness managed to birth and raise three children. Their glamorous, villa-frequenting, jet-setting lifestyle was enviable to many, but her immense wealth and the constant, watchful eye of stifling bodyguards made Guinness feel isolated, alone, and somewhat unhappy. In 1999, the enigmatic couple separated, and Guinness suddenly had to “start over.” She regained contact with family and friends, focused on being an attentive mother, and began to establish herself more eminently as a fashion connoisseur, a prominent member at every launch party, always in the front row of haute couture runway shows, rubbing elbows with the fashion elite and receiving invitations to international, awe-inspiring parties. Guinness said, “I found, at that time, that fashion became an extension of self.”

During her marriage to Niarchos, Guinness began collecting haute couture clothing, a hobby she is now most notably known for. Her affinity for exquisite, handmade, breathtaking clothing reflects Guinness’ penchant for the arts, and more specifically, her sentimental admiration for those who create gorgeous garments which invoke feelings of serenity and visions of grandeur.

Guinness said, “Why I love couture is the people that do it…because they are absolute masters. It’s just a dying craft…When you see the whole back story and you know the people, and when you put on a jacket and find a pin in your sleeve, that’s so great because you think that day of who made it.”

As a muse to designers like Valentino and Gareth Pugh (pictured below), it’s obvious that Guinness’ respect for the work of visionary tailors is fully reciprocated. Her style cannot, and will not be defined – it exists as an equivocal element replete with appealing intrigue. When asked to define herself, Guinness replied, “I can’t be objective. I’m just never sure about it….I love to create beautiful things and I like to be around people who are trying to do things that are authentic.”

When asked how she gets dressed in the morning, Guinness elaborated, “By a wing and prayer. If you look very carefully, mainly it’s the same thing and I re-accessorize it. Or I have the same jacket made again and again. Or I’ll have a sparkly coat or I’ll just have a new pair of shoes. It’s pretty easy, actually.

Easy to look at, sure, but certainly not easy to replicate. Her usual errand-running ensemble? A fitted black dress by L’Wren Scott, several black scarves, asymmetrical cat-eyed sunglasses, and of course, 7″ red platform Mary-Jane heels. Her formula for flawless style is enviable, to say the least, but it’s also inspiring. Although many don’t possess, or even come close to owning, Guinness’ incomparable collection of clothes, hordes of superlative accessories, and varied array of extravagant shoes, we all possess a unique individuality capable of propagating remarkable style.

“Celebrities almost never look good unless they are out at something or other, while real fashion animals always look a little interesting, even if they are only going to Starbucks. Individuality will always exist,” she asserts. “It’s more that it has become very underground and doesn’t infiltrate the mainstream as much as it should, so you have to search it out, which is getting more difficult, but also more rewarding.”

This past September, Guinness released a signature scent with Comme des Garcons. However, unlike many other celebrity perfume lines, Guinness’ scent is an idiosyncratic fragrance which resulted from two-and-a-half years of mingling her favorite aromas to find that one perfect aromatic essence.

The fragrance is aptly named Daphne. It possesses a principal note of tuberose, a night-blooming perennial flower native to Mexico. When asked for her impression of the perfume, Guinness replied that the tuberose reminds her of her mother, who passed away in 2005, and the flower market in Spain she visited every summer.

“We always used to have these huge vats of them (tuberose), and they would just fill the house with scent all summer long. It reminds me of my childhood. I would collect them and put them all on greaseproof paper with a kind of gel, and then you leave it for a few days. Then you’d scrape off the gel and have a sort of essence…they’re not beautiful in the peony sense of the word, but the smell is unlike anything else. I love it.”

When asked how important fragrance is to her style, Guinness replied, “Huge. Huge. It’s a ritual…I just go to my cupboard and I sort of look at all my different oils and think, “OK, right, today this is the baseline and I’m going to build it up to there.”

And that’s also how she “builds up” her style. A little of this, a little of that – an Alexander McQueen dress here, a pair of “unwalkable,” gravity-defying Nina Ricci heels there, a flair of fabulousness with a dichotomous hair style, a sense of seriousness with a solemn, armour-inspired arm of jewelry. Daphne Guinness is the epitome of a successful, fashionable socialite, someone who is acutely aware of their personal preferences, executed exceptionally well via impeccable ensembles and a certain je ne sai quoi.

By ModCloth Writer: Annie Morrison

Iris Apfel wears many hats. Quite literally, as an undisputed fashion icon known for a perfectly panache presentation, Apfel’s closet undoubtedly features feathered fascinators, bejeweled berets, and chic cloche hats. Figuratively, her impressive curriculum vitae includes Vogue Prix de Paris girl, textile firm owner, and eponymous subject of a nationally renowned exhibit, to name a few. At 88 years old, the fabulous fashion diva is still doing what she does best: demonstrating her immaculate taste by radically assembling opulent outfits of dissimilar influences.

Keep reading to learn more about one woman’s iconic closet!

American original Iris Barrel Apfel is a vivacious style icon, known for a truly innovative approach to fashion. Many would describe Apfel as a chic contrast – her personal style is both high- and low-end, which cultivates an air of carefree elegance, fueled by her love of splendid, well-made clothing with a bit of flair. Apfel is widely known as an influential pioneer in the world of fashion, without much concern for current trends and styles. However, despite her lack of regard for modern style, Apfel’s lavishly layered wardrobe combinations of prints, textures, colors, patterns, and silhouettes has rendered her as cutting-edge and modern as they come.

“I think dressing up or down should be a creative experience. Exciting. Fun. Whenever possible, it’s really great to start with a marvelously cut designer piece and build on it,” said Apfel.

Apfel’s wardrobe is replete with animal prints, precious jewelry, vibrant jumpsuits, couture gowns constructed of the finest fabrics, and of course, plenty of oversized circular eyeglasses.

“For me the key to personal style lies in accessories… I have amassed an enormous “collection” of bags, belts, bangles and beads without which I would be lost. One can change the entire look of an outfit by substituting one accessory for another. I love objects from different worlds, different eras, combined my way. Never uptight, achieving – hopefully – a kind of throwaway chic.”

As she so eloquently desired, Apfel’s style could be the definition of throwaway chic. Her knack for combining seemingly disparate items into a sophisticated ensemble is unmatched by any other icon in the world of fashion. In the early 1950s, Apfel and her husband, Carl, founded Old World Weavers, an international textile manufacturing company which specialized in weaving exact reproductions of antique-period fabrics.

Apfel said, “We spent almost three months every year traveling the world to find offbeat classic-period textile designs and to locate specific mills with specialized techniques to properly replicate them.”

Her adventures in and eclectic finds from worldly workshops, bazaars, thrift stores, haute couture houses, runway shows, and flea markets have provided her with a diverse collection of ensemble embellishments. Her traveling shopper aesthetic also serves as an inspiration for ambitious, thrift-store-frequenting, vintage-loving traveling fashionistas everywhere!

How many fashion personalities can say that their personal collection of accumulated jewelry, clothing, and accessories is worthy of a solo exposition? The exhibit dedicated to Apfel’s exquisitely eccentric style showed at the Met, the Norton Museum in Palm Beach, and the Nassau County Museum of Art, among many others. Entitled “Iris Apfel: Rare Bird of Style,” the exhibition showcases over 80 of Apfel’s most dramatic ensembles, including a haute couture Lanvin gown, a meticulous Norman Norell evening coat, and several peacock brooches which Apfel commissioned in the early 1960s from vintage glass jewelry masters, and frequent Chanel collaborators, Maison Gripoix. Needless to say, the exhibit is absolutely stunning and, as a result, downright awe-inspiring. Although it is impossible to truly capture the creative, seemingly unstoppable spirit of such a dynamic tastemaker, “Rare Bird of Fashion” does its best to epitomize the somewhat intangible magnetism which has made Apfel a style superstar. Her iconic style is evidenced in the ensembles which seamlessly juxtapose the high and low – haute couture with costume jewelry, designer gowns with flea market finds, crafty accessories with zebra-print everything. Get inspired – check out Apfel’s style, characterized by a mix of fantasy, pulchritudinous prints, color, color, color, pattern, whimsy, and humor. “Iris Apfel: Rare Bird of Fashion” can be seen at the Peabody Essex Museum in Salem, Massachusetts through February 7, 2010.

By ModCloth Writer: Annie Morrison

“My style icon is anyone who makes a bloody effort,” said the absolutely fabulous, always intriguing, eccentric British beauty Isabella Blow. Blow, who is credited with discovering designer extraordinaire Alexander McQueen, British model Sophie Dahl, and milliner Philip Treacy, among many others, is an undisputed style icon. Her love of bright red lipstick, a tightly cinched waist, and of course, her internationally known penchant for over-the-top headgear, has inspired many, been admired by thousands, and has even created some serious style biters. Her frequent dress code? Classic couture with a zany twist – a pair of sophisticated Manolos, a form-fitting, fine fabric gown, haphazardly applied cardinal red lipstick, bright aqua eyeshadow, and an extraordinary hat.

Keep reading to learn more about Isabella Blow’s unrelenting fashion choices and her style legacy…

Isabella Blow (b. 1958, d. 2007) was born and raised in London. She worked odd jobs until she moved to New York City in 1979 to pursue an Ancient Chinese Art degree at Columbia University. After studying at Columbia for a year, Blow left school to work for French milliner Guy Laroche. This was her earliest venture into the enchanting world of stupendous hats, which she would be known for in the years to come. Eventually, Blow moved back to NYC and became acquainted with the coolest people of that era – Andy Warhol, Anna Wintour, and Jean-Michel Basquiat. It is rumored that Warhol, as a former shoe illustrator, approached Blow because she was wearing a pair of mismatched Manolos, which he found to be downright darling. He became smitten with her savvy style, and he wasn’t the only one. Soon Blow became Wintour’s assistant at Vogue. She took the respected magazine by storm with her love of “costume” outfits, and her ability to dress for nearly every occasion, as long as it was fabulous. “I loved coming to the office,” Wintour said, “because I never knew what to expect. One day she’d be a maharaja, the next day a punk, and then she’d turn up as a corporate secretary in a proper little suit and gloves.”

In 1986, Blow moved back across the pond to work for Tatler magazine, British Vogue, and London’s The Sunday Times Style Magazine. She fell in love, married in 1989, and hired unknown milliner Philip Treacy to design her wedding headdress. Blow instantly fell in love with Treacy’s exquisite craft, and the two formed a fast friendship. Blow encouraged Treacy to live under her roof and do nothing but design hats, which he eagerly accepted. From that point on, Blow was never seen without marvelous millinery. Some of my personal favorite Treacy hats worn by Blow include “The Ship,” a ridiculously realistic replica of an 18th century French ship with full rigging made from miniature buttons, and “Gilbert and George,” a fluorescent hairpiece made of hot pink and lime green lacquered ostrich feathers. In the summer of 2006, Cranbrook Art Museum presented an exhibition of the aesthetic relationship between Treacy and Blow, titled “When Philip Met Isabella – Philip Treacy’s Hats for Isabella Blow.” What I would give to go back in time and visit that exhibit, which was undoubtedly a deeply moving, almost voyeuristic view into Blow’s private hat collection. Try cultivating your own extravagant, Blow-inspired ensemble with the To No A-Veil Headband, A Berry Sprig Deal Headband, or the Fashion Fractal Hat.

In addition to being an international style icon, Blow was a fashion editor and brand consultant. However, her most legendary unofficial “role” was discovering and fostering fashion talent. She was incredibly perceptive and intuitive, and possessed an eerily accurate sense of fashion trends to come. Her flawless intuition resulted in some of today’s hottest fashion players, namely Alexander McQueen. Blow first spotted a virtually unknown Lee McQueen at the Central Saint Martins College of Art and Design senior show. She relentlessly pursued this man who she knew to possess a revolutionary talent, eventually buying his entire graduation collection for £5,000, which she paid for in installments of £100. She also encouraged McQueen to change his named to Alexander, after Alexander the Great. Blow’s knack for recognizing truly exception talent was reflected in her style. Granted, she wore daring, flashy clothes, but they were always tasteful, refined, and oozing with high culture. Her natural sense of style showcased an adoration for extreme beauty, detail, interesting silhouettes, and fun proportions, especially in regards to headgear. However, her extreme clothing and accessory choices were often used to distract others from herself, a sad but true physical manifestation of her incredibly low self-esteem and disabling depression. “I don’t use a hat as a prop,” Blow once said. “I use it as a part of me. If I am feeling really low, I go and see Philip, cover my face, and feel fantastic. Although, if I’m on a real low, it requires going to the doctor for a prescription.”

Even at her funeral, Blow donned one of the best hats in the room. Her coffin was surmounted by Philip Treacy’s final creation for his extravagant muse – a black sailing ship bonnet, which peaked over the crowd of mourning fashion icons at her highly attended funeral service. Actor Rupert Everett eulogized Blow while fighting back tears, “You were a one-off, a genius friend, your own creation in a world of copycats and I will miss you for the rest of my life.”

Following her death in 2007, Blow’s most notable discovery, Alexander McQueen, was inspired to create his spring/summer 2008 collection as an homage to Blow’s eccentric style. The collection was based on an avian theme, and many looks were reminiscent of some of Blow’s most infamous ensembles. McQueen’s models strutted down the catwalk in showstopping party dresses with plunging necklines, and as expected, feathered, avant-garde hats were commonplace. McQueen’s runway show, dedicated to and inspired by Blow, is a telling example of how one woman’s confident style sent ripples throughout the world of fashion.

Some of today’s biggest stars continue to be inspired by Blow’s captivating chicness. Regardless of your opinion on Lady Gaga’s music and general demeanor, her fashion choices are typically regarded as being very exciting, daring, and revolutionary. That being said, the next time you hear someone raving about how progressive Gaga’s style is, please voice a little credit to the late Isabella Blow. Some of Gaga’s most edgy ensembles are direct, dare I say it?, ripoffs of Blow’s boundary-breaking style, as seen in the photos below.

Isabella Blow commanded respect and attention with her mere presence, a feat only a true style icon can successfully pull off. Her flamboyant style left a heavy footprint on the sandy beaches of fashion, so often left undisturbed by those who are afraid to express their true style fantasies. I give her infinite credit for having such a fine-tuned vision of personal style, and I’m constantly inspired by her ability to maintain such an uncompromising appearance.