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FASHION
LOOK 1
Rita Hayworth was a fashion leader in her own right. Much like her ability to switch from her reserved demeanor in Separate Tables (1958), to the fiery dynamo that she is in Gilda (1946), she was also a style chameleon who pulled off any outfit flawlessly. From dazzling floor length gowns to the most casual of ensembles, Rita always turned heads, and exuded a certain grace and sensuality that was uniquely hers. She was one of Hollywood’s biggest muses back then, and had a wardrobe that women of all ages still dream of having to this day.
“There never was a woman like Gilda”. You can say the same about her sense of style. Every outfit the vixen donned was sheer perfection, but this black satin gown that she wore while performing Put the Blame on Mame was definitely her most memorable. It’s easily one of the most iconic black dresses in history, and still looks modern when worn today. The combination of the lustrous fabric, fitted bodice, and thigh high side slit is elegant yet sexy, and matched Rita’s glamorous persona to a T.
Here is an off-the-shoulder version that Gilda would surely approve of had she been born in the 21st century:
LOOK 2
Not into dresses and skirts? Then this look may be your cup of tea. Rita shows us that a pantsuit can be just as sophisticated and feminine as a full length frock (not to mention extremely practical for women on the go). The halter neckline is such a classy way to show off your collarbones and shoulders, while the relaxed fit of the pants allows for effortless movement. If you’d like to emphasize your curves even further, take cues from Rita and cinch your waist with a belt in a similar hue.
Try out this versatile fit:
I also love how Rita layered on a printed, floor-length coat over her outfit, which added texture and contrast to an otherwise neutral ensemble. Consider these dress coat options for the warmer months:
To dress it down in summer:
Or to dress it up:
LOOK 3
While I love seeing Rita all glammed up, it’s also refreshing to see her in more everyday pieces like this outfit that she wore in the musical You’ll Never Get Rich, 1941. I think every woman should have a go-to button down shirt for days when one simply can’t decide on what to wear, as well as some crisp white shorts to sharpen up any casual fit.
Cop these wardrobe must-haves:
You can’t go wrong with this universally flattering pair:
Any type of footwear would work for this outfit, though I highly recommend some Mary Janes if you’d really like to nail Rita’s Old Hollywood aesthetic.
LOOK 4
Rita loves a classic white bikini, and it’s easy to see why! They’re fresh, effortlessly chic, and will always be on trend. White is also a staple for the warmer months, and looks great on virtually any skin tone (especially if you have a deeper complexion or a summer tan). Here, Rita opted for a triangle cut top and high waisted bottoms—a universally flattering silhouette that anyone can slip into and feel confident wearing. Plus, you’ll never have to worry about the color fading. As long as you take good care of your swimsuit, you’ll be able to wear it for several summers to come.
If you love vintage style swimsuits, then you have to check out this retro-inspired number:
High Waisted Two Piece Swimsuit Set
BEAUTY
Rita’s signature look was glamorous but never overdone. While other stars had their hair set in place with copious amounts of styling products, Rita opted for soft waves that moved beautifully with every dance step. Her makeup was never too dramatic either, and had just the right amount of color and definition to allow her natural beauty to shine through.
Here are some pointers from the Love Goddess herself:
HAIR
Rita’s billowy auburn locks are definitely her most distinctive feature. To keep them in tip-top shape, Rita would apply olive oil over the mid lengths and ends of her hair, and let the oil sit for 15 minutes while wrapped in a towel. She would then rinse her hair with hot water and lemon juice to get rid of any residue. This special regimen is what gave her hair a silky, shiny appearance both on and off screen.
Thanks to some innovations in hair care, you’ll be glad to know that you can achieve a similar result with an olive oil shampoo and conditioner:
ORS Olive Oil Creamy Aloe Shampoo and Replenishing Conditioner
DESIGNLINE Olive Oil Conditioner
FOUNDATION
Rita’s smooth and flawless complexion was achieved with Max Factor’s Pan-Cake and Pan-Stik Make-Up, which were in every Hollywood makeup artist’s kit when Technicolor film was introduced. Though you can’t get Pan-Cake anymore, Max Factor still carries their revolutionary Pan-Stik Foundation that promises the same results as they did decades ago: full coverage with less effort.
See what the hype was all about:
LIPS
Though Rita’s eye makeup was always on the lighter and more neutral side, she never shied away from a statement lip, and was also the face of Max Factor’s red lipstick campaign in the 1940s. The star’s lips were even voted the best in the world by the Artists League of America.
Channel your inner Rita:
Max Factor Elixir Lipstick in Ruby Tuesday
NAILS
Rita was said to have the longest nails in Hollywood, and often matched her nails with her lip color (which was trendy in the 40s). She also had a big influence on the popularity of red lacquer during the 50s.
Cop this Rita-approved color:
Sally Hansen SALON Nail Polish, Red My Lips
CONCLUSION
Rita Hayworth died on May 14, 1987, at the all-too-young age of 68. While this post embraces her fashion and beauty, she was much more than her physical appearance. Transforming herself into the epitome of the Movie Star, Rita Hayworth beat the odds in 1940’s Hollywood. With her soft voice and ultra-feminine features, she exuded a delicate presence in all of her films, even when playing a forceful character. Her sensitive and loving nature shone through all of her performances.
Two of my absolute favorite of her films are Separate Tables, 1958, with Burt Lancaster, and the early Only Angels Have Wings, 1939, with Cary Grant.
Have you seen any of Rita Hayworth’s films? Comment below if you have!
For more fashion and beauty from Old Hollywood, check out my post on Audrey Hepburn.
11 thoughts on “Rita Hayworth’s fashion and Beauty Picks: Re-Create the Look!”
I love Rita Hayworth. I didn’t know she had a Spanish background. Thx for great article:)
Yes her Spanish heritage was new to me too! Thanks Sheri.
NEVER BE ANOTHER RITA, EVER!!
Yes I agree!
Have seen all her movies. Most many times.
She had great screen presence. Which are your favorite of her films? Thanks for reading!
Loved all of her movies—favorite being Gilda. She exuded sex yet it wasn’t overkill.
Her face, hair, figure and voice were perfection—not to mention the wardrobe!
I adore watching her!
Loved all of her movies—favorite being Gilda. She exuded sex yet it wasn’t overkill.
Her face, hair, figure and voice were perfection—not to mention the wardrobe!
I adore watching her!
Always loved her, my favorite film will always be Gilda. But, anything she was in, I’ve watched over and over—can’t get enough of her. She was drop dead gorgeous! And, what a body! From head to toe she was just ravishing. I knew she was Spanish, her career started with her father—was the name Cansino—something like that. Would have loved to have seen them perform!
Thanks for all the photo’s.
Always loved her, my favorite film will always be Gilda. But, anything she was in, I’ve watched over and over—can’t get enough of her. She was drop dead gorgeous! And, what a body! From head to toe she was just ravishing. I knew she was Spanish, her career started with her father—was the name Cansino—something like that. Would have loved to have seen them perform!
Thanks for all the photo’s. Said what?
Yes her name was Cansino. I’m a big fan of the movies from the 40’s and 50’s and she’s one of my favorites too. If you haven’t seen “Only Angels Have Wings” you must watch it. She’s great as Cary Grant’s former girlfriend. Thanks for your comments.