“Elegance is elimination.”–Balenciaga
Ngaio Marsh by Henry Herbert Clifford (1935).
This 85-year-old photograph of New Zealand writer Ngaio Marsh proves that elegance, coziness, and individuality can be as stylish as anything out of the pages of a 21st-century fashion magazine.
Embellishments are minimal: an eccentric shoulder, a few buttons, an indifferently tilted hat, a bit of pattern and texture here or there.
Clean lines. Confidence.
She is, more than anything, mysterious.
How appropriate.
The cover of Eliza by Barry Pain, 1904:
Eliza by Barry Pain , 1904. Illustration by Wallace Goldsmith.
“Simplicity is the ultimate sophistication.”–Clare Booth Luce
English writer Margery Sharp definitely knew that, way back in 1945.
Margery Sharp (1945) by Bill Brandt
Sure, you could classify her look as a bit severe or buttoned-up. Even austere (the photo was taken at the end of WWII, after all). I think she’s…sharp (pun intended and unavoidable). The pointy shoulders on the blouse, simple skirt, and round glasses are timeless and, through some weird alchemy, almost edgy. All the bonus points: Margery Sharp also gave the world that superior fictional mouse, Miss Bianca, who has style for days.
My sweet cousin bought me this book for Christmas. As most of you know, I do an occasional feature about dead writers’ style, so this is up my alley.
Legendary Authors and the Clothes They Wore
“Over the years I have learned that what is important in a dress is the woman who is wearing it.”–Yves Saint-Laurent
Iconic children’s book author Margaret Wise Brown had style to match her writing: timeless, straightforward yet unique, and unforgettable.
The stripes and strong shoulders, though clearly from the 1940s, are streamlined, edgy, and relevant:
Margaret Wise Brown Writing
Her bouncy, easy-going hairstyle is impeccably modern, and is the perfect accompaniment to her sleek, minimally accessorized dress:
Margaret Wise Brown
Some would say that a favorite doggo is the best “finishing touch” of all:
Margaret Wise Brown by Consuelo Kanaga, circa 1940-1950
It’s no secret that Margaret Wise Brown was very outdoorsy and active, a lifestyle which effortlessly merged with her sophisticated and relaxed dress sense. She’s wonderful inspiration for anyone who values style, practicality, and a dash of whimsy.
Five O’Clock Tea by Leo Rauth, 1911
Easter Bonnets, 16 April 1911 (The Sun, New York)
Designing Women
Harper’s, June 1896 Cover by Edward Penfield
This coloring book from American Vogue is so lovely. I cannot wait to give it a whirl!
Vogue Colors A to Z
A Small Press Life: Books. Art. Writing. Life. Tea. 