We love to watch the Hollywood starlets rise and fall like glittery balloons at the will of the breeze. We love their sky’s-the-limit fashion steppings-out and missteps, but the most epically tragic and yet still such a style icon in my heart will always be model and muse to Andy Warhol, Edie Sedgwick. I had a phase in college wherein I realized my short, blonde locks bore even a modicum of resemblance to hers and I fell headlong into a phase of obsessive research into her taste, her style and her life. Almost a member of the 27 club, Sedgwick burned in such a fury that no one should aim to mimic her every move, but her impeccable and outlandish fashion sense set the tone for decades to come, and a great deal of what’s happening now. Here are a few of my favorite tips on how to channel Edie… safely.
It’s all about the accessories. I’m pretty sure Edie just started with a bodysuit and built from there. Her short ‘do left room for gigantic earrings, lavish necklaces, and big eye-makeup. While I don’t suggest trying it all at one time, the editorial approach to a basic outfit is a good form to follow. Stick to things that look decadent. Gold-toned, bright jewels. Don’t be afraid to have fun.
Do the unexpected. Sometimes I use the moments when I’ve just pulled out too many clothes from my closet and they’re lying there in a heap and just pull the colors that strike me and put them together. Sometimes it doesn’t make any sense, but I find a way to make it work. It’s all about taking that thing that looks like no one else could wear it and trying it on. Experiment. Unconventional silhouettes exist because our bodies are all different, and the best compliment I ever receive is, “Only you could wear that!”
Work your assets. If you’ve got legs for days, wear something to show them off. Pump up the volume on your eyelashes. If you’ve got lips that won’t quit, don’t hide them. Accentuate an hourglass figure, show some decolletage. Know what you’ve got going for you and work it, because life is short (hopefully longer than Edie’s for most of us), and there’s no reason not to.
Here are some current pieces that remind me of Edie’s style. Also, have a look at the slideshow to shamelessly ogle her short yet epic life of fashionable fame.
ASOS Statement Deco Drop Earrings, $32.35 from Asos
ASOS Two Tone Coat With Zip, $122.20 from Asos
Stripe Pocket Frock, $41.00 from American Apparel
ASOS Statement Cocktail Ring, $21.56 from Asos
STEVEN by Women’s Stardom Studded Flat, $49.98 from Amazon.com
ASOS Metal Top Keyhole Round Sunglasses, $21.56 from Asos
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guest
I love Edie, she is definitely one of my top style icons. She was innovative, creative, and cute and also a very interesting and troubled person. Her eye makeup is my favorite look to emulate (although it takes a lot of time and patience to get it right, especially with fake eyelashes).
daisy / 506 posts
Her style was so uniquely her. Folks (including me) can try to mimic, but her mod-classic beauty will remain solely hers. Ugh, but man will I keep trying! Hahaha.