8 Style And Beauty Lessons We Learned From Billie Holiday

8 Style And Beauty Lessons We Learned From Billie Holiday

Today marks what would have been Billie Holiday's 99th birthday. It's hard to believe the legendary songstress who gave us iconic hits like "Strange Fruit" and "Lady Sings the Blues" was just 44 years old when she passed away.

However, Lady Day's legacy is still as strong as ever. Billie was recently featured on the cover of New York Magazine, and actress Audra McDonald will play her on Broadway this spring in the production "Lady Day at Emerson's Bar & Grill."

And beyond her captivating voice and rise to fame, we will always remember Billie for her sensational style. From her signature Gardenia hairpieces to her glamorous gowns, it's easy to see why Billie is such an icon.

With that said, in celebration of her birthday we've rounded up just a few of the many timeless style and beauty lessons that we learned from Lady Day.

Fresh or faux flowers in your hair is enternally chic
Floral accents on your ensemble are totally head-turning as well
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It's ok to get matchy-matcy with your clothing, accesories and makeup
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Statement earrings are a must-have
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Off-the-shoulder dresses are always flattering
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You can never wear too many diamonds
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Whenever possible wear sprakly shades
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Never underestimate the classic combo of red lips and nails
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Before You Go

Circa 1935
JP Jazz Archive via Getty Images
1935
Michael Ochs Archives
Circa 1930s
Michael Ochs Archives via Getty Images
Circa 1937
Gilles Petard/Redferns
1939
Frank Driggs Collection/Getty Images
Circa 1940
Frank Driggs Collection/Getty Images
Circa 1940s
Michael Ochs Archives/Getty Images
Circa 1940
William Gottlieb/Redferns
Circa 1942
Charles Peterson/Hulton Archive/Getty Images
Circa 1944
Michael Ochs Archives via Getty Images
Circa 1946
Michael Ochs Archives/Getty Images
Circa 1947
Frank Driggs Collection/Getty Images
1948
William Gottlieb/Redferns
1949
Gilles Petard/Redferns
Circa 1950
Gerrit Schilp/Redferns
Circa 1951
John D. Kisch/Separate Cinema Archive/Getty Images
Circa 1954
Charles Hewitt/Picture Post/Getty Images
1957
Bill Spilka via Getty Images
Circa 1957
Paul Hoeffler/Redferns
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