"3 Dorothy Dandridge inspired outfits" - My Mayne Wardrobe
In celebration of Black History month, I'm sharing outfits inspired by the beautiful actor and singer Dorothy Dandridge.
Dorothy Dandridge, outfit inspiration, style ideas
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“3 Dorothy Dandridge inspired outfits”

Dorothy Dandridge outfits

“3 Dorothy Dandridge inspired outfits”

It is February and that means Black history Month!! I know there are a lot of people out there who would say we should celebrate our heritage every day. I agree with that statement, but I think it is an awesome opportunity to bring awareness during this month,  highlight important black figures in our history, and celebrate their legacies.  Because of my appreciation and admiration of effortless, classic, and chic style, I decided to recognize and pay tribute to a black woman who had a major influence on classic fashion.  I recreated 3 looks to pay homage to Dorothy Dandridge because I can identify with her classy yet timeless style. 

 You guys she was a Hollywood bombshell back in the 1950’s!!  Dorothy Dandridge grew up in Cleveland Ohio and was a triple threat: singer, actress, and a dancer. She started out in a singing group with her sisters performing at high profile clubs that included the Cotton Club and the Apollo Theater. She was the first African-American actress  to be nominated for an Academy Award for Best Actress in her 1954 film, “Carmen Jones”

Outfit #1: This outfit was recreated from Dorothy’s 1954 film “Carmen Jones”.  This is an American musical film starring Dorothy Dandridge and Harry Belafonte.  She was photographed in this outfit for the cover of time magazine here. She posed in this strong stance on movie billboards in the iconic red skirt, black off the shoulder top, and red rose in her hair. Her hair was always curled and kept short, to frame her face. The top and skirt were thrifted from Goodwill and I pulled down the straps of the top to give more authenticity to the outfit.

black sleeveless top and red skirt

Outfit Details:

Goodwill top: similar

Goodwill red skirt: similar

 She played multi-ethnic leading ladies in cinema including Mae West, Delores del Rio, and Anna May Wong. Not only was she a talented actress, but people were mesmerized by her beauty.

Style: Elegance, poise, and grace

  • These words come to mind when describing this stunning and breathtaking beauty
  • She knew how to rock classy, figure hugging dresses and loved to wear off the shoulder blouses and dresses
  • Her looks were always tailored and she always added accessories that gave off enough glam
  • Her style was simple, sexy, and classy

Outfit #2: This outfit was recreated as one of Dorothy’s go to casual looks here. She often chose very classic, sleek, and chic pieces for her every day looks. She went for a classic white button down shirt and black tapered pants. Dorothy often would pop her collar on her button down shirts. She used a scarf around her waist as a belt to define her waist. In the original photo she was wearing black slide in shoes, but I opted for these black and white loafers, which still add that classic vibe.

white button down shirt and black tapered pants

white button down shirt and black tapered pants

Outfit details:

Old Navy white button down shirt: similar

Banana Republic tapered pants(sale): similar

G.H. bass loafers: similar

Outfit #3: Not only was she beautiful, Dorothy had a figure to go with it!! When attending red carpet events or parties, Dorothy Dandridge would be seen dressed in body-hugging, floor length gowns that were absolutely stunning seen here. This outfit is inspired by a modern day version dress Dorothy may have worn if alive during our era. I chose a white body-con dress and nude heels to capture the classy yet sexy vibe. As you can see it is form fitting, but it’s sleek and provides a refined, yet sophiscated look. White just exudes elegance, when done tastefully!

express white dress

express white dress

Photography: Floyd Mayne

Outfit Details:

Express dress: similar

Banana Republic shoes: similar

Style Tip: To add Dorothy Dandridge glam to your wardrobe:

  • Go for simple accessories, belts, scarves, bracelets etc.
  • Add a white button-down shirt and black pants to your wardrobe for that casual weekend look. This was Dorothy’s go to off-duty attire!!
  • Find a dress that hugs your curves and is flattering to your silhouette. Make sure the neckline is high or off the shoulder and the dress length comes down to the knee or little past it.

“There is no force more powerful than a woman determined to rise!!!”

-Dorothy Dandridge

Dorothy Dandridge was a classy and elegant fashion icon. Her personal style for glam and casual looks can be easily incorporated into your wardrobe for everyday life. It was tragic she died young, but her beauty and style will forever remain in our memories. Which look is your favorite? Please leave a comment below. I hope you were able to take away some new knowledge and inspired to recreate or add some pieces based off Dorothy Dandridge’s style.

-Janel

12 Comments
  • pinkandgabulous
    Posted at 14:40h, 06 February

    Oh how cool! I love the black and white with the scarf as a belt. And those black and white loafers! Obsessed.

    • Janel
      Posted at 18:16h, 06 February

      Thank you girl for your wonderful comment. Those loafers are one of my favorite shoes!!!

  • Marquita McCoy
    Posted at 00:31h, 07 February

    Chic and classic!

    • Janel
      Posted at 03:56h, 07 February

      Thank you!! I hope you enjoyed it!!

  • SassyTeacherChic
    Posted at 22:15h, 10 February

    I like all of them, but the little white dress is my favorite. It’s so sophisticated! Sassyteacherchic.com

    • Janel
      Posted at 00:53h, 11 February

      Thank you so much for checking out my blog!! Yes, I think the white one is my favorite as well.

  • Nyasha Nicole
    Posted at 16:15h, 12 February

    I Like the white one. And oooo your natural hair is pretty 🙂

    http://anaturellecraving.blogspot.com/

    • Janel
      Posted at 18:12h, 12 February

      Thank you for stopping by!! Yes, I like the white one as well. Thank you so much for the compliment!!

  • gymbagsandjetlags
    Posted at 20:40h, 12 February

    I ADORE your shoes in the second outfit. I also love your inspiration for this post. These are all stellar.

    xx, Pia
    http://gymbagsandjetlags.com

  • KeyvaJo
    Posted at 23:41h, 12 February

    Thanks for sharing more of her story! I definitely learned a few things that I didn’t know about her! I also loved the style of course :-), especially the white dress which looks beautiful on you!

    • Janel
      Posted at 03:03h, 13 February

      I am so glad you were able to take away something!! Thank you for your kinds. Yes, the white dress is one of my absolute favorite looks.

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