Elizabeth Taylor was a true Hollywood legend.
Known for her unforgettable performances in classics like A Place in the Sun, Cat on a Hot Tin Roof, Cleopatra, and Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf, Taylor made her screen debut at just 10 years old in 1942’s There’s One Born Every Minute. By the age of 12, her breakout role in National Velvet solidified her as a rising star, and she went on to win two Academy Awards.
In addition to her talent, Taylor became famous for her multiple marriages—particularly her two unions with Richard Burton—and her striking violet eyes. She embodied Old Hollywood glamour with her timeless style, often embracing Dior’s New Look, which dominated fashion in the 1940s and 1950s, and a love for extravagant jewelry.
In honor of what would have been her 87th birthday (she passed away in 2011), let’s take a look back at some of Elizabeth Taylor‘s most stunning vintage fashion moments.
#1. 1940s
Here’s a glimpse of Elizabeth Taylor in a stunning publicity shot from her early career. Even in her younger years, Taylor’s classic beauty and undeniable star quality were evident, setting the stage for her legendary status in Hollywood.
With her striking features and signature grace, she quickly became one of the most photographed and admired actresses of her time.
#2. 1947
Here’s Elizabeth Taylor in a photo from the 1947 film Cynthia. At just 15 years old, Taylor captivated audiences with her youthful charm and natural talent in this coming-of-age film.
Her beauty, poise, and screen presence were already shining through, hinting at the legendary career that was to come.
#3. 1947
In this photo, Elizabeth Taylor is seen wearing a stylish printed top, showcasing her effortless elegance. Known for her impeccable fashion sense, Taylor often blended casual sophistication with her glamorous persona.
Whether in everyday wear or high-end couture, she always managed to make a striking impression with her timeless style.
#4. 1948
In this stunning portrait, the British-born Elizabeth Taylor leans gracefully on a bannister, wearing a chic halter-strap gown.
The elegant silhouette of the gown perfectly complements her timeless beauty, while her poised expression captures the essence of Old Hollywood glamour.
Taylor’s natural sophistication and charm are on full display, making this portrait a classic representation of her iconic style.
#5. 1948
Elizabeth Taylor attends the Lord Mayor’s Parade in London, exuding her signature elegance and grace. Surrounded by the vibrant atmosphere of the historic event, Taylor effortlessly captures attention with her radiant presence.
#6. 1948
Elizabeth Taylor playfully twirls her dress at her family’s home in Los Angeles.
#7. 1948
Elizabeth Taylor, as seen in the film A Date with Judy, radiates youthful charm and beauty.
#8. 1948
A portrait of 16-year-old Elizabeth Taylor, featured in Vogue, captures her youthful elegance and timeless beauty.
#9. 1949
In this studio photo, Elizabeth Taylor showcases a beautiful dress featuring a delicate lace bodice and a gracefully pleated skirt.
#10. 1949
Elizabeth Taylor arrives in New York aboard the Queen Elizabeth, stepping onto the iconic scene with her signature glamour.
#11. 1949
In this striking look, Elizabeth Taylor wears a printed frock designed by Ceil Chapman. The dress beautifully accentuates her figure with its vibrant patterns and elegant silhouette, showcasing Taylor’s timeless style.
#12. 1950s
Elizabeth Taylor sits gracefully on a large chair with a fan-like backrest, exuding elegance in her long sleeve dress.
#13. 1950
The screen star Elizabeth Taylor is seen at the Acropolis in Athens, surrounded by the stunning ancient architecture that highlights her timeless beauty.
#14. 1950s
Elizabeth Taylor poses for a portrait in the 1950s, radiating classic Hollywood elegance.
#15. 1950
In this studio portrait, Elizabeth Taylor showcases her iconic beauty and charisma. With expertly styled hair and captivating violet eyes, she embodies the classic glamour of Hollywood.
#16. 1950
Elizabeth Taylor looks stunning in a green sleeveless low-cut dress, elegantly paired with a luxurious white fur wrap.
The vibrant color of the dress beautifully complements her complexion, while the fur adds a touch of sophistication and glamour.
#17. 1950s
Elizabeth Taylor is dressed in a full skirt, exuding a playful yet elegant charm. The voluminous silhouette of the skirt adds a touch of femininity to her look, enhancing her timeless beauty.
#18. 1950
Elizabeth Taylor stands outside the sound stages at Paramount Studios during the filming of A Place in the Sun, alongside her longtime friend Montgomery Clift.
#19. 1951
Elizabeth Taylor is seen in London, stylishly carrying her iconic plastic transparent handbag. The accessory adds a modern touch to her classic ensemble, showcasing her trendsetting fashion sense.
#20. 1952
Elizabeth Taylor, as she appeared in the MGM film Love is Better Than Ever, captivates audiences with her youthful charm and radiant beauty.
#21. 1952
Elizabeth Taylor wears a stunning sleeveless lace brocade dress that beautifully highlights her figure and elegance. The intricate lace detailing adds a touch of sophistication, while the rich texture of the brocade exudes luxury.
#22. 1953
Elizabeth Taylor poses gracefully in a dress designed by Helen Rose in the MGM wardrobe department for the film The Girl Who Had Everything, elegantly holding a cigarette.
#23. 1953
On the set of The Girl Who Had Everything, Elizabeth Taylor is seen combing her hair while wearing a stylish bathing suit. The relaxed yet glamorous atmosphere captures her effortless beauty and poise.
#24. 1953
Elizabeth Taylor looks stunning in a red bathing suit adorned with sequins on the front. The vibrant color complements her iconic beauty, while the sparkling sequins add a touch of glamour and playfulness to her beach look. T
#25. 1953
Elizabeth Taylor models a chic cocktail frock in black and white silk while in Rome. The elegant design beautifully showcases her figure, and the striking color contrast adds a sophisticated flair.
#26. 1954
Elizabeth Taylor poses gracefully in a swirling dress for the movie Rhapsody, filmed in the picturesque landscapes of Switzerland. The flowing fabric captures movement beautifully, enhancing her enchanting presence.
#27. 1955
Elizabeth Taylor poses elegantly in a swimming pool, wearing a striking one-piece leopard print swimsuit. The bold pattern highlights her playful yet glamorous style, while the pool setting adds a touch of luxury to the moment.
#28. 1955
In a studio portrait, Elizabeth Taylor showcases her timeless elegance while wearing circular gold earrings. The earrings beautifully frame her face, accentuating her iconic violet eyes and radiant smile.
#29. 1955
Elizabeth Taylor dazzles in an exquisite evening gown, complemented by a stunning pearl bracelet and a sparkling hair accessory. The gown’s elegant silhouette enhances her figure, while the pearl bracelet adds a touch of sophistication.
#30. 1956
Elizabeth Taylor is captured on location in Indiana during the filming of the Civil War-era drama Raintree County, where she reunited with her longtime friend Montgomery Clift.
#31. 1956
Elizabeth Taylor strikes a pose with sunglasses on the set of the movie Giant, one of her biggest hits. In this iconic role, she starred alongside Rock Hudson and James Dean, who delivered a memorable performance in his final film.
#32. 1957
Elizabeth Taylor is seen in her beautiful home in Beverly Hills, California. The elegant decor reflects her sophisticated taste and love for the finer things in life.
#33. 1957
Elizabeth Taylor shines at the Cannes Film Festival, adorned with stunning diamond earrings and a sparkling tiara. Her regal look embodies the glamour of the event, showcasing her status as a Hollywood legend.
#34. 1959
In a memorable scene from Suddenly Last Summer, Elizabeth Taylor walks gracefully from the water, showcasing her ethereal beauty.
This film marked another collaboration with her close friend Montgomery Clift, alongside the legendary Katharine Hepburn.
#35. 1959
Elizabeth Taylor is captured watching her then-fiancé, Eddie Fisher, as he performs onstage at the Tropicana in Las Vegas. With a look of admiration, she enjoys his performance, embodying the supportive partner in a glamorous setting.
#36. 1959
Elizabeth Taylor is seen on the set of Suddenly, Last Summer, exuding her signature glamour and poise.
Dressed in character, she immerses herself in the intense drama of the film, showcasing her incredible talent alongside co-stars Montgomery Clift and Katharine Hepburn.
#37. 1960
Elizabeth Taylor is seen on the set of Butterfield 8, fully in character for her role. Her captivating performance in this film earned her the Academy Award for Best Actress, a testament to her immense talent.
#38. 1960s
Elizabeth Taylor looks stunning in a pink suit, radiating elegance and sophistication. The tailored outfit perfectly complements her iconic style, showcasing her timeless fashion sense.
#39. 1963
Elizabeth Taylor portrays the title character in Cleopatra, directed by Joseph L. Mankiewicz. During the filming of this epic film, she sparked a passionate romance with her co-star Richard Burton, which became one of Hollywood’s most infamous love stories.
#40. 1963
Here’s another captivating shot from Cleopatra, featuring Elizabeth Taylor in all her glory as the iconic queen. Adorned in elaborate costumes and striking makeup, Taylor embodies the character’s regal presence and charisma
