Many babyboomers would recall the infamous American socialite and heiress Gloria Vanderbilt readily as she was the epicenter of one of the most highly publicized custody battles of our time. Despite this heartbreak, she of the famed Vanderbilt family of New York, has had many varied and great achievements ranging from authoring books and delving in art, fashion, and acting. She is noted to be an early developer of designer blue jeans. She is also mother to CNN television anchor, Anderson Cooper.

Nevertheless, despite her prolific professional roster, Gloria Vanderbilt was a style icon to say the very least.  She cleverly adapts themes (Elizabethan, Sultans of Persia) and wears them with an undeniable panache. The Lady Vanderbilt conveys a sense of ferocity, a compelling, magnetic force; you can glimpse the intelligence and tenacity in the eyes, certainty and assurance in the costume, a complete embodiment of character and strength of conviction. It is incredible to say the least how one’s sense of style can be so telling of one’s character. And for Madame Vanderbilt, much can be said.

“Fashion is about dressing according to what’s fashionable. Style is more about being yourself.“

 

Courtesy of Mark D. Sikes, Visual Therapy, The Red List France, Indulgy