The allure of iconic jewelry goes beyond just a simple fashion statement. In a mesmerizing photoshoot on the cover of Vogue’s September 2024 issue, Blake Lively, at the age of 36, embodies the persona of an impeccably dressed cat burglar. Directed by Baz Luhrmann and inspired by the classic film “To Catch a Thief,” Lively showcases a stunning Cartier necklace that once belonged to the legendary Elizabeth Taylor. This necklace, adorned with eight cushion and oval-shaped faceted Burmese rubies set in platinum and 18k gold, was a gift from Taylor’s then-husband, Mike Todd, in 1957.
In a cinematic shot, Lively, dressed in a Balenciaga catsuit with built-in heels, a Hood London hat, and sunglasses, skillfully carries the sparkling necklace while climbing a building. The exquisite piece continues to make a statement as Lively transitions to a casino scene, captivating the attention of her co-star, Hugh Jackman, in a golden LaQuan Smith dress. Excitedly, Lively shared in her Vogue interview, “I had Elizabeth Taylor’s necklace! Elizabeth Taylor’s necklace in my hand.”
Elizabeth Taylor’s connection to the necklace is highlighted in home video footage where she can be seen showing off the jewelry by the pool, reminiscing about the day she received the necklace, along with matching earrings and a bracelet, at a villa near Monte Carlo. Taylor’s joy and awe at the beauty of the jewelry are immortalized in her words from her book, “My Love Affair with Jewelry,” where she describes the moment as a blissful experience, with the jewelry creating a striking visual against the blue of the water.
Despite the tragic death of Mike Todd in 1958, Elizabeth Taylor retained the necklace in her collection, wearing it to various events, including a 2001 concert in honor of Michael Jackson. Following Taylor’s death, the iconic Cartier necklace was auctioned by Christie’s in 2011, fetching a staggering $3,778,500. The necklace’s storied past adds a layer of historical significance to its already dazzling allure.
For Blake Lively, the Vogue shoot was a departure from her recent floral ensembles in preparation for her upcoming film, “It Ends With Us.” The actress, also known as the founder of Blake Brown, has been making headlines for her sartorial choices, including wearing a 2002 Versace dress once donned by Britney Spears to a recent film premiere. Lively’s ability to effortlessly blend modern fashion trends with iconic pieces of the past showcases her unique style and fashion-forward approach.
The world of iconic jewelry holds a timeless appeal that transcends generations. Through the lens of a Vogue shoot, we witness the magic of storytelling through fashion, where pieces like Elizabeth Taylor’s Cartier necklace serve as both symbols of opulence and reminders of a glamorous past. As we continue to explore the intersection of history and fashion, it becomes evident that iconic jewelry not only enhances an outfit but also carries with it a rich and captivating narrative that elevates the wearer’s style to new heights.
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