Tuesday 13 December 2011

The Collection of Elizabeth Taylor

Elizabeth Taylor represents the glamour of the golden age of the silver screen, a true diva who will always be remembered for her stunning beauty and amazing talent.



Elizabeth Taylor

"The more the better has always been my motto." Elizabeth Taylor

Christie's in New York is auctioning this week her collection of haute couture, jewellery and art. The auction is expected to raise millions of dollars.



Elizabeth Taylor as Cleopatra


Our memory of Elizabeth Taylor is intertwined with Cleopatra, a 1963 film directed by Joseph L. Mankiewicz, where she brilliantly plays the leading role with Richard Burton, who she married twice off screen. 

"She had her own very individual way of dressing, it was all her, there was no stylist involved." Jonathan Rendell, Deputy Chairman Christie's America



Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton first marriage


The sunflower yellow chiffon wedding dress for her first marriage to Richard Burton, designed by Irene Sharaff, is being auctioned, among many other couture gowns, from Christian Dior to Valentino and Givenchy.



Versace (1990s), possibly Paco Rabanne (late 1970s) and Versace (circa 1992)
Source: Christies.com


There is an amazing Versace evening jacket from the early 90s beaded with rhinestone portraits of Miss Taylor in her most famous roles, including Cleopatra, lined in harlequin blue and green silks.

I also have to mention a Tiziani black velvet evening cape made for her to wear at Grace of Monaco 40th birthday party.


Dolce & Gabbana (2000), Tiziani (1968-9) and Valentino (circa 1971)
Source: Christies.com


Grace Kelly was a Scorpio and a great friend of Elizabeth Taylor, the cape was probably designed by a young Karl Lagerfeld. As the story goes, people invited to the party had to be Scorpios so this was a creative way to blend in.

Her taste for haute couture was exquisite but her jewellery collection is just as impressive, one of her favourite stones was the emerald.



Elizabeth Taylor with her beloved emeralds


"I introduced Miss Taylor to beer, she introduced me to Bulgari." Richard Burton

When you think of Elizabeth Taylor, you think of beautiful precious stones, she was always photographed wearing stunning jewellery which is also being auctioned alongside some paintings including a magnificent Andy Warhol portrait of her. 



Liz by Andy Warhol. Source: Christies.com


Other related posts:
The Power of a Dress
The Incredible Allure of an Actress
Power Women: a Journey