Elizabeth Taylor

Elizabeth Taylor remains one of the world’s most iconic women. She has captured the hearts of millions and inspired others with her independent spirit and compassion. As a child actor who rose to fame, she portrayed iconic female characters that exemplified strength and femininity. Over a remarkable six-decade career, she received five Oscar nominations and won two Best Actress awards.

Not only was Elizabeth an exceptional actress, but she was also a savvy businesswoman. Her strong sense of self-worth enabled her to negotiate the first $1 million contract for an actor for her role in Cleopatra. Additionally, she became the first celebrity to launch a fragrance brand. In today’s hyper-digital world, maintaining celebrity status often means transforming one’s name into a brand or multiple brands. In many ways, Elizabeth serves as a blueprint for modern celebrities. When she launched her signature fragrance, White Diamonds, in 1991, it was a groundbreaking move that caught many off guard. Years later, with sales in the billions, Elizabeth’s success set the standard for celebrity-endorsed fragrances. Kim Kardashian, one of the world’s most recognized figures and a self-proclaimed “Elizabeth Taylor nerd,” even interviewed her in a 2011 issue of Harper’s Bazaar, seeking inspiration for her own perfume line.

In addition to her passion for perfumes, Elizabeth was deeply invested in glamor. Unlike many stars today, she owned her jewelry and did not borrow pieces for the red carpet. When her extensive collection was auctioned at Christie’s, many items were purchased by fellow celebrities. Kim Kardashian honored Elizabeth’s legacy by acquiring a set of gold and jade Lorraine Schwartz bangles she once wore. Similarly, model and activist Naomi Campbell bought several of Elizabeth’s famous kaftans, noting in People Magazine that they became her go-to during the pandemic.

Beyond her glamor, business, and acting, Elizabeth’s most significant role was as an activist. During a sensitive time in society, she used her access to influential figures like the President of the United States to advocate for HIV/AIDS awareness and LGBTQ rights. She established The Elizabeth Taylor AIDS Foundation and co-founded amfAR which led her to receive several honors, including the Légion d’honneur, the Presidential Citizens Medal, and the Jean Hersholt Humanitarian Award at the 65th Academy Awards. In 2000, Queen Elizabeth II honored her as a Dame Commander of the Order of the British Empire. Her efforts also inspired others such as Madonna and Elton John. During a speech at Elizabeth’s 65th birthday gala, Madonna thanked Elizabeth for giving her and others “permission to share their light.”

Through her varying business ventures, fashion, films, and philanthropic efforts, Elizabeth remains an unparalleled figure of influence. Many photographers seek to capture the magic of her iconic campaigns in their own work. For instance, Helmut Newton’s famous photoshoot of Elizabeth swimming in jewels with her parrot on her arm inspired Glen Luchford’s 2021 campaign with Jodie Turner for Gucci’s High Jewelry line. This stylistic legacy can also be seen in other projects, including shoots featuring Jennifer Lawrence and Laura Harrier.

Whether through her fashion sense, entrepreneurial pursuits, social activism, or creative impact, Elizabeth’s life and legacy continue to be celebrated by the public.