Grace Kelly’s Timeless Style Lights Up The Rodeo Walk of Style

Pictured: Grace Kelly’s MGM publicity photos grace LA’s Rodeo Drive (photo, M. Hall, The Recessionista Blog)

Last night, one of the 20th century’s great style icons, the beautiful Grace Kelly, lit up Beverly Hill’s Rodeo Drive. Princess Grace received an award tonight from the Rodeo Walk of Style for her contributions to fashion and entertainment. Honored along with the Princess was French jeweler Cartier. Although Cartier is sadly out of The Recessionista price league, the style of Grace Kelly is as accessible and fresh today as it was over 40 years ago when she reigned as a Princess here in Hollywood. When I look back at old Grace Kelly photos, or watch her in To Catch a Thief or Dial M for Murder, I think of her beautiful accessories and her simple strand of pearls. There are many things today’s fashionista on a budget can learn from Grace. The main lesson is simplicity of style and classic pieces. When I think of Grace Kelly’s style, this is what I think of:

Scarves

A colorful scarf wrapped around the neck like a piece of jewelry added sparkle.

A simple scarf wrapped around the head can magically transform a bad hair day.

Jewelry

Pearls, whether they are costume or Mikimoto, a simple strand adds luster.

Clothing

Pictured: A Grace Kelly look book recreated using Polyvore

• A simple shirt dress with a cinched-waist
• Capri pants with ballet flats
• Tailored suits

Hairstyle

Hair swept back from the face or in an elegant up do.

Pictured: The invitation to the Grace Kelly Walk of Style Event shows Grace with her hair up, when she was Princess of Monaco (photo, M. Hall, The Recessionista Blog)

Watching the ceremony to honor Grace on Rodeo Drive, I couldn’t help but think about why she remains an enduring style icon many years after her death. She wore the clothes, they did not wear her. She choose classic pieces, and she kept things simple, elegant and chic. This is why her look still inspires today.