This article pays tribute to the legendary actress Diane Keaton, who recently passed away at the age of 79. It delves into her profound influence not just on cinema but, significantly, on fashion. Keaton's distinctive sartorial choices, which often blended menswear-inspired elements with quirky accessories, challenged conventional Hollywood glamour and established her as a true style icon. From her Oscar-winning role in "Annie Hall" to her appearance in Justin Bieber's music video, her fashion philosophy consistently emphasized personal expression and joy in dressing. The piece highlights how her unique approach resonated deeply with peers and fans alike, solidifying a legacy that celebrates individuality and authenticity in style.
The Enduring Fashion Legacy of Diane Keaton: A Timeless Icon
Yesterday, the esteemed actress Diane Keaton departed at the age of 79, prompting a flood of heartfelt tributes across social media from her distinguished colleagues, including Bette Midler and Goldie Hawn, with whom she co-starred in the 1996 cinematic hit, "The First Wives Club." Beyond her professional circle, millions of admirers who felt a personal connection to her — whether through her memorable portrayal in "Annie Hall," her role as a supportive mother in "Father of The Bride," or for a younger demographic, her cameo in Justin Bieber's "Ghost" music video — also shared their profound condolences. A common thread weaving through these numerous homages was a deep appreciation for her unparalleled fashion sense.
Keaton's signature look was instantly recognizable: a harmonious blend of trousers and a blazer, frequently adorned with a whimsical accessory such as a necktie, a broad belt, a floral brooch (predating Carrie Bradshaw's trend), or a classic bowler hat, often paired with platform shoes or sleek boots. She steadfastly rejected the prevailing Hollywood fashion diktats for actresses, instead opting to cultivate her own personal aesthetic. This deliberate choice was driven by the sheer pleasure she found in the act of dressing.
When she received her inaugural Oscar for Best Actress in 1978 for her performance in "Annie Hall," her acceptance attire was a striking antithesis to the opulent designer gowns typically seen at such events. She appeared in a gray blazer, a crisp white button-down shirt, and a striped, calf-length skirt worn over trousers tucked into boots, complemented by an infinity scarf loosely tied around her neck. Her minimalist approach to jewelry included only a modest pair of stud earrings and a pink carnation brooch on her lapel. In an era before celebrity stylists were commonplace, Keaton remained true to her self-styled approach throughout her career, favoring esteemed labels like Richard Tyler, Ralph Lauren, Giorgio Armani, Thom Browne, and Comme des Garçons, thereby forging her own path in fashion partnerships.
While her character Annie Hall, with her iconic vest and tie ensemble (a collection of vintage pieces Keaton personally curated for the role), is perhaps her most celebrated fashion persona, I often recall her as J.C. Wyatt in the 1987 film "Baby Boom." In this role, she embodied a workaholic investment broker who unexpectedly inherits an infant from a distant relative. My mother, then a criminal prosecutor, frequently admired Keaton's 1980s professional wardrobe: tailored skirt suits with pronounced shoulder pads, elegant silk ascots, and polished black patent pumps. Similar to Keaton, my mother gravitated towards modest, slightly tomboyish silhouettes that prioritized comfort without sacrificing sophistication. These were practical yet sharp garments that always exuded elegance and glamour.
Another vivid memory is Keaton in "The First Wives Club," confidently swinging her hips and dancing joyously in a chic white skirt suit while singing "You Don't Own Me." This scene consistently brought smiles to my mother and me when we watched it together. She commanded that moment, that ensemble, and that song. Whether gracing the screen, walking the red carpet, or, in later years, showcasing her style on Instagram, it was evident that Keaton found immense delight in dressing, primarily for her own satisfaction.
Last year, Rizzoli released Keaton's book, "Fashion First," where she chronicled her sartorial journey through personal recollections. She shared anecdotes about her desire to wear a bowler hat to her prom, her passion for accessories, and how Cary Grant's style ignited her love for fashion. In the foreword, Ralph Lauren himself penned, "Diane has worn my clothes many times but she's always made them totally her own." This statement perfectly encapsulates the essence of authentic personal style, a quality Keaton embodied effortlessly.
For me, Keaton's enduring legacy lies in her pure, unadulterated sense of personal taste. This expressive quality also permeated her acting. It's a unique kind of charm, inherent in someone who possesses a natural flair and knows how to articulate it through their choices. While discussions on personal style often lead to exhaustion or cynicism within fashion circles, it is impossible to discuss personal style without referencing Keaton — particularly for those of us who consider ourselves fashion enthusiasts and prefer suits and ties over frills and ballgowns.
Beginning in 2019, Keaton began sharing mirror selfies of her outfits, primarily featuring a monochromatic palette, occasionally interspersed with check prints or houndstooth patterns, often with an avant-garde Japanese influence and multiple layered cross necklaces. Until her final days, she transformed fashion into her personal art form, not for external validation but seemingly because it invigorated her — a testament to the uplifting and transformative power of true style.
One of the most moving tributes to Keaton's life came from the equally charming and vibrant Bette Midler, who succinctly described Keaton: "What you saw was who she was... oh, la lala!" Although Keaton often wore clothing that tended to be modest (a point she frequently discussed), her style, whether on screen, in her daily life, on the internet, or in fashion, consistently unveiled her true self. And through it all, she undeniably relished every moment of expressing herself through her attire.
Diane Keaton's profound influence on fashion and her unwavering commitment to authentic self-expression remind us that true style is a reflection of individuality. Her legacy encourages us to embrace our unique aesthetic, finding joy and empowerment in the way we present ourselves to the world, rather than conforming to external expectations. Her life serves as an inspiring testament to the idea that fashion can be a deeply personal and artistic endeavor, a powerful tool for self-discovery and confidence.