Iconography was something I discussed a lot in my presentation and something I’ve touched on quite a bit throughout my blogs.
Whether it be the iconic Carrey Bradshaw wearing Manohlo Blahnik shoes whilst running around New York City, or simply the iconic name of the PRADA brand, iconography is extraordinarily relevant.
But who are my icons? Who do I consider to be the icons moving the fashion industry forward? In my presentation, I touched on a few names, and today I’d like to give each of them their moment in the spotlight.
Marilyn Monroe
Marilyn Monroe was specifically iconic due to her outward sex positivity and her efforts toward liberating women’s sexuality during a time that saw that as taboo. Marilyn Monroe’s most famous fashion moment was undoubtedly her appearance in the white dress in the movie “The Seven Year Itch.” The dress was designed by William Travilla and featured a plunging neckline and a full skirt that swirled around her legs as she stood on a subway grate. This dress became an instant classic and is now one of the most iconic dresses in movie history. It also set the trend for the “Marilyn” style of dress, characterized by a fitted bodice, full skirt, and plunging neckline.
RuPaul
RuPaul is a famous member of the queer community, producing and starring in the show “RuPaul’s Drag Race” where drag queens compete for the best drag of the season. RuPaul’s drag persona, with its exaggerated glamour, theatricality, and camp, has inspired many designers and artists to incorporate elements of drag into mainstream fashion. The influence of drag on fashion is evident in the use of bold colours, oversized proportions, theatrical makeup, and attention-grabbing accessories.
Kim Kardashian
Back to the title of this; who is Kim Kardashian anyways? Kim Kardashian was the daughter of the famous lawyer, Robert Kardashian (see OJ Simpson case for details). She was born into money, but her prophecy will shock you. Kim Kardashian’s makeup and beauty style has become iconic in the fashion industry. She has popularized contouring, highlighting, and other makeup techniques that have since become staples in many people’s beauty routines. She has also launched her own line of beauty products, called KKW Beauty, which includes makeup and skincare products. For clothing, Kim Kardashian’s casual yet stylish outfits, often referred to as “athleisure,” have become a trend in the fashion industry. Her ability to mix high-end designer pieces with sporty, comfortable clothing has inspired many people to adopt a more relaxed and effortless style.
Hunter Shafer
Hunter Schafer is an American actress, model, and LGBTQ+ rights activist. She first gained recognition for her role as Jules in the HBO series “Euphoria,” which premiered in 2019. Prior to her acting career, Schafer was also a successful model, and she has worked with major fashion brands such as Marc Jacobs and Dior. Schafer is also an advocate for trans rights and has spoken publicly about her own experiences as a transgender woman. She has used her platform to raise awareness about trans issues and promote inclusivity and representation in the entertainment industry.
Anna Wintour
Someone I have already discussed quite a bit is Anna Wintour! I’m a very big fan of her success at Vogue magazine and think she has done an excellent job. Wintour has been the editor-in-chief of Vogue magazine since 1988, and during her tenure, she has shaped the magazine into one of the most influential fashion publications in the world. Under her leadership, Vogue has championed new designers, set trends, and given visibility to underrepresented groups in the fashion industry.