When I stumbled upon Diana Vreeland’s quote, “Too much good taste can be boring,” I knew I had to highlight her as a style icon.
Who Is Diana Vreeland?
Diana Vreeland’s name frequently comes up in the fashion world, especially given her significant influence during the 1960s. Born Diana Dalziel in 1903 in Paris, she was the eldest daughter of American socialite Emily Key Hoffman and British father Frederick Young Dalziel. Growing up in wealth, she later married banker Thomas Reed Vreeland, with whom she had two sons.
Starting Out at Harper’s Bazaar
Diana started her publishing career in 1937 when she moved from London to New York, becoming a columnist for Harper’s Bazaar. Reportedly, she landed the job after editor Carmel Snow spotted her dancing in a Chanel dress. She wrote the “Why Don’t You” column and is credited with discovering Lauren Bacall in the 1940s. During her time at Harper’s Bazaar, she frequently collaborated with renowned photographer Richard Avedon.
Advising Jackie Kennedy and Joining Vogue
Diana also advised Jackie Kennedy on her wardrobe for JFK’s inauguration and other significant events, introducing her to designer Oleg Cassini. They remained lifelong friends. In 1963, she joined Vogue, staying until 1971. Reflecting on her magazine work, she remarked how these publications offered a necessary perspective to their readers, many of whom craved direction.
Shaping Beauty Standards in the ’60s
During the 1960s, Diana noted a shift in beauty ideals: imperfections became less important as long as one had a great figure and poise. She championed street fashion and created features that blended fantasy with glamour. After leaving Vogue in 1971, allegedly due to extravagant spending, she began working for the Metropolitan Museum of Art.
Diana Vreeland passed away on August 2, 1989, but her influence endures. You can explore more about her in her autobiography and the book “Diana Vreeland” by Eleanor Dwight.
What do you think about her perspective on style? Do you agree?
