Classic Actresses Were Perfume Geniuses

I think we can all agree that when we think about perfumes from decades ago, we immediately think of outdated. Stinky. So potent, the fragrance could fill up an entire theatre.

I am here to clear the air — classic Hollywod was on to something with their choices. Audrey Hepburn, Marilyn Monroe, and Grace Kelly became iconic for a reason, and I am sure they knew how to choose perfumes that didn’t chase their fans away.

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Is That Kim Kardashian Perfume Bottle a Throwback to Mae West?

Mae West refused to take ocean voyages — didn’t people remember what happened to the Titanic, she reportedly retorted when it was even suggested to her.

There was only one thing she feared even more fiercely — flying.

So when producers wanted her to travel to Paris for costume fittings in preparation for “Every Day’s a Holiday she said a firm no. But they had a problem — the designer was in Paris. How to fit dresses to a woman who refused to travel to the dressmaker’s shop?

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Bette Davis’ Favorite Things

I recently had the opportunity to hear one of Bette Davis’ longtime personal assistants speak at the DTLA city library — she had some fascinating stories about this icon of the Golden Age — or “Miss D” as she affectionately referred to her.

During the Q&A I asked her about a few of Ms. Davis’ favorite things, and I wanted to make sure to update an old post to reflect what I learned. So, as always, below are a few of her favorite things, along with a story or two about why she loved them. 

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Marlene Dietrich’s WWII Trenchcoat Inspiration

When she wasn't plotting ways to use fashion in dangerous and creative ways (more on that in a minute) Marlene Dietrich, starlet of the Golden Age of Hollywood, was known for her military-inspired fashion in an era that preferred pink and butterfly sleeves. One of the first fashionistas to pioneer trousers, we have her at least partially to thank for our comfy sweatpants.

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Sexy Leopard Print [Science of Attraction]

The science of fashion is always a curious thing. I recently learned that cheetah/leopard prints make you more attractive. The scientific term is "Misattribution of Arousal" ... but since you probably don't want to sift through a bunch of medical journals, I will boil it down the main points: Ravenous wildcats have sharp teeth and want to eat you, therefore when one wears wildcat print men think of sharp teeth and being devoured, inciting a fear reaction, which somehow also increases feelings of attraction. 

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