Elizabeth Taylor lived fast and plentifully, married seven men - one twice - nearly died umpteen times through serious illness, fought like a tigress for the people she loved and the causes she embraced, and finally left us five years ago today.
Ron Galella via Getty Images
Through all that, from her stature as a child star to arguably the world's most desirable woman, she acquitted herself with wit, a twinkle in her eye, more twinkles on her bejewelled fingers and, invariably, in great style.
Advertisement
Here, on the anniversary death, are just 25 lessons in being your best, from the woman who left it in her will that she would be a few minutes late, yes, even to her own funeral.
We miss you, Ms Taylor, and there's no one quite like you around.
Plaid Can Definitely Be Pretty
ullstein bild via Getty Images
The checked print doesn't always have to evoke a lumberjack.
Sometimes, You Just Need To Dress Up
API via Getty Images
Ladylike gowns aren't going anywhere fast.
Keeping It Casual Is Also Cool
Mark Kauffman via Getty Images
A simple sweatshirt can be just as effective as a dress, especially if diamond accessories are involved.
Advertisement
Elegance Is Key
Mondadori via Getty Images
You Can Still Be Sexy While Covered Up
API via Getty Images
It's all about balance! As proven by Liz, a sheer shirt with a cami underneath reveals the illusion of bare skin, providing just the right amount of allure and mystery.
Lingerie Is Undeniably Sexy
API via Getty Images
Even if it's quite conservative.
Advertisement
Details Are Key
Earl Theisen Collection via Getty Images
Liz knew that interesting details, like a laced or scalloped hem, went a long way in making an outfit memorable.
Holiday Dressing Doesn't Need To Be Tacky
Hulton Archive via Getty Images
See?
Athletic Wear Is Most Definitely Cool
Silver Screen Collection via Getty Images
How can one make a parker look so cool?
Advertisement
One-Pieces Are Ridiculously Classy
Silver Screen Collection via Getty Images
Especially when they're leopard print.
You Can't Go Wrong With A Fur Stole
Darlene Hammond via Getty Images
So plush, so classy.
Airport Style is Most Definitely Important
New York Daily News Archive via Getty Images
You may want to be comfy, but that doesn't mean you can't look stylish at the same time.
Advertisement
See What We Mean?
New York Daily News Archive via Getty Images
Liz knew that even at the airport, she had to step up her style game.
The Right Jewelry Can Make All The Difference
Silver Screen Collection via Getty Images
Big earrings (or a statement necklace) can bring an ensemble to the next level.
Separates Are Just As Great As Dresses
New York Daily News Archive via Getty Images
Because sometimes, you just prefer a skirt.
Advertisement
Floral Prints Always Look Fresh
Mondadori via Getty Images
So pretty!
Crisp White Is Oh-So-Classy
Francois LOCHON via Getty Images
Isn't it? There's just something about a crisp white shirt that speaks to us.
A Little Bit Of Lipstick Goes A Long Way
Keystone Features via Getty Images
One's beauty look is just as important as their outfit.
Advertisement
Showing Off Your Curves Is A Positive Thing
API via Getty Images
Even if you don't do it all the time, showing off those curves of yours can really add a boost of confidence.
Great Tailoring Is Necessary
New York Daily News Archive via Getty Images
Because every lady needs a sharp power blazer.
Smart Is Always Sexy
Mondadori via Getty Images
Enough said.
Advertisement
Accessories Are Just As Important As Your Outfit
Keystone-France via Getty Images
Whether a cute clutch, a sparkly brooch, or a wrist full of bracelets, sometimes you've just got to let your accessories speak for themselves.
Animals Almost Always Make An Outfit Better
New York Daily News Archive via Getty Images
So cute! And we know pets aren't accessories, but that doesn't mean they can't elevate one's style.
It's OK To Show Off A Little Leg
GAB Archive via Getty Images
Especially if the rest of your ensemble is demure.
Advertisement