Billie Holiday’s voice and style were one of a kind–so much that the latter is repeatedly duplicated by celebrities hoping to channel their inner Lady Day for fashion inspiration. Juxtaposing her woeful blues sound with a glamorous image, Billie redefined classic whereever she went. From the signature flower in her hair (at times swapped for a turban or hat) to her statement making pearl necklaces, it’s easy to see why celebrities are fans of the blues singer’s style.
As we celebrate what would have been her 99th birthday, let’s see what other famous ladies have channeled the singing fashionista.
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Paula previously channeled the blues singer in Glamour Magazine.
Photo Credit: Glamour Magazine
Crediting Billie Holiday as inspiration with her music, the powerhouse recreated the singer’s infamous look for her 2012 album promo.
Photo Credit: Jake Bailey
Diana morphed into Billie for Lady Sings the Blues.
Monique
With her hair replicated like Holiday’s, the actress accepted her first Oscar in 2010.
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For Harper Bazaar’s Sept ’09 issue, the model tapped into her inner Lady Day.
Photo Credit: Peter Lindbergh
Rihanna posed as Billie Holiday in her 2006 spread for Jewel Magazine.
Photo Credit: Jewel Magazine
Beyonce
During her 2007 Grammy’s performance, Beyonce rocked Billie’s signature flower in her head.
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Latifah constantly channels her inner Billie Holiday with style and music.
Photo Credit: Mary Ellen Matthews via Jed Root
Paloma Faith
At the T in the Park last year, Paloma rocked a Holiday inspired updo.
Photo Credit: Getty
Mercedes
The model used her lupus pain to nail her Billie Holiday shoot on America’s Next Top Model.
Alexandra Burke
The former X Factor contestant is using Billie Holiday as inspiration her new EP.