The world has lost a true icon, a woman who defined coolness and left an indelible mark on fashion and film. Diane Keaton, who passed away at 79, was more than just an actress; she was a style trailblazer, a pioneer who dared to be different and authentic.
Keaton's influence on fashion began in the 1970s, a time when menswear-inspired looks were making waves. Her role in Annie Hall, a film that catapulted her to stardom, showcased her unique androgynous style. The iconic Annie Hall look, a blend of vintage pieces and her own wardrobe, became a trendsetter, and it's a style that continues to inspire collections even today.
But here's where it gets controversial... Keaton's input on her character's style caused a rift with the film's costume designer, Ruth Morley. Allen, the director, had to step in and give Keaton creative control, a decision that led to a unique collaboration. The resulting wardrobe was a fusion of vintage finds, Keaton's personal pieces, and contributions from Ralph Lauren.
The New York Times picked up on this trend, coining it the "Annie Hall look," and interviewed Morley, who described the character as "little confused but original and creative." This description could also apply to Keaton herself, except she knew exactly who she was and expressed it through her fashion choices.
Keaton's signature style was so distinctive that it inspired a book, Diane Keaton: Fashion First, where she credits her mother as her style muse. Her parents, Jack and Dorothy Hall, instilled in her a love for fashion and self-expression.
Ralph Lauren, who wrote the book's foreword, noted that Keaton attended his fashion shows long before her fame. He clarified that Annie's style was Keaton's own, a unique and eclectic mix.
Keaton's personal style was evident in her onscreen roles. From tailored trousers and jackets to an affinity for accessories, especially hats, her fashion choices were an extension of her personality.
And this is the part most people miss... Keaton's roles inspired women of all ages to embrace their style and confidence. In films like The First Wives Club and Something's Gotta Give, her characters' fashion choices became aspirational, showing that style knows no age limit.
On the red carpet, Keaton took risks and had fun with her looks. She paired jackets with skirts, added statement shoes, and wore bowler hats and berets. Her collaborations with designers like Ralph Lauren and Giorgio Armani resulted in iconic looks, like the Charlie Chaplin-inspired ensemble and the velvet tuxedo.
Armani, in an interview, praised Keaton's approach to stardom, saying she wanted to be relatable first and a star second. He noted how she made a tailored jacket, typically associated with men's suits, look modern and individual.
In recent years, Keaton favored designers like Thom Browne, whose slim and innovative menswear aesthetic complemented her style.
Some may question whether Keaton's personal taste in her character's costumes was authentic. However, the opposite is true. Keaton primarily portrayed strong, confident women who found their inner strength throughout their journeys. Her characters, like Annie Hall, became inspirations for women of all ages, proving that style and confidence know no bounds.
