Diane Keaton: A Unique and Joyful Fashion Inspiration
Actor Diane Keaton passed away over the weekend at the age of 79, prompting a resurgence of admiration for her contributions to both film and fashion. A video from the Ralph Lauren show in 2022 circulated widely on social media, showcasing Keaton reveling in the atmosphere—laughing, sipping wine, and cheering for the models on the runway.
This moment not only highlighted her trademark androgynous style but also underscored her belief that fashion could be a source of joy. Keaton’s vibrant spirit came through in her distinctive wardrobe choices, including blazers, bowler hats, and an array of turtlenecks, all of which she curated herself, defying the typical reliance on professional stylists among celebrities.
In a tribute posted on social media, Ralph Lauren remarked, “Diane always marched to the beat of her own drum — in the way she lived, the way she saw the world, and the way she made all of us feel. She was authentic, unique and full of heart. She was always herself — one of a kind.”
Keaton’s two-piece suits were a perfect counterpart to 1990s baggy menswear trends.
Keaton’s rise to fame in Hollywood predates the contemporary fashion obsession with controlling celebrities’ every appearance. Her passion for style began long before her stardom; in her 2024 coffee table book, “Fashion First,” she reminisced about her childhood fascination with clothing and the unique outfits crafted by her mother.
By the time she became prominent in the 1970s, particularly through her roles in “The Godfather,” her sense of fashion was firmly established. On-screen, the lines between her true identity and the characters she portrayed often blurred. Notably, for her iconic role in 1977’s “Annie Hall,” Keaton famously dressed herself based on the character’s androgynous style as envisaged by director Woody Allen, who had drawn inspiration from their own relationship.
Diane Keaton, wearing Armani, collects the Oscar for Best Actress at the 50th Academy Awards in 1978.
The double-breasted Armani blazer she wore while accepting her Oscar was emblematic of her unique style, marked by a pink carnation and a striped skirt layered over pants. This bold choice broke traditional red carpet norms, showcasing her enduring love for androgyny and her creative spirit. Her fondness for accessories—bowler hats, wide belts, and statement glasses—remained a hallmark throughout her career.
Despite an unwavering personal style, Keaton also embraced evolving fashion trends. Frequently attending fashion weeks, she incorporated contemporary elements into her outfits, opting for designers like Comme des Garçons and Thom Browne when she wanted to experiment with silhouettes. Yet, she balanced this with classic pieces, ensuring her wardrobe remained versatile.
Playful accessories and chunky heels were central to Keaton’s style.
In her later films, including “Something’s Gotta Give,” Keaton exemplified a sophisticated, affluent bicoastal aesthetic, wearing cashmere and crisp whites that hinted at privilege. Throughout her work, both on and off screen, she understood the powerful role clothing plays in storytelling.
Despite her illustrious career, Keaton approached fashion with a sense of humor. In her book, she dedicated a chapter to fashion missteps, admitting to moments that landed her on “worst dressed” lists. “The more we worked on the book we found humor in my choices. I mean hysterics,” she told Women’s Wear Daily. “If we can’t laugh at ourselves, what is life about?”
Keaton, pictured here aged 3, attributed her childhood love of fashion to her parents.
Keaton’s legacy in fashion transcends her role in the film industry, reflecting a balance of authenticity, creativity, and the joy of self-expression. Her profound impact on both fashion and film will continue to be felt for generations to come.
