The Enduring Style of Joan Didion
by Alexa Wilson
Cashmere sweater draped over gamine shoulders, oversized sunglasses eclipsing face, cigarette in hand, and typewriter at the ready--Joan Didion was nothing short of a badass. So it’s honestly no surprise that the literary icon was given her very own documentary on Netflix, “Joan Didion: The Center Will Not Hold”. The film, directed by her nephew Griffin Dunne, follows Joan’s storied career and life over the last 5 decades.
Through the span of her career, the Slouching Towards Bethlehem author and former Vogue editor had not only captivated English majors and literary admirers, but also the world of fashion. From her iconic packing list (including 2 skirts, 1 pullover sweater, and bourbon) to her Internet-breaking Céline ad, what was it that made Joan an enduring fixture of both fascination and emulation?
It is most definitely in part due to her quiet glamour. Her persona was aloof, her writing is bracing, and her style was powerfully minimalistic. For all its simplicity, there is no lack of depth to the image of Joan Didion. She wore her own personal armor, allowing her to blend into any situation and observe the characters she was to write about. This lends itself to Joan's sartorial longevity. She was both nonchalant and defiant, effortless and deliberate, anonymous and distinctive.
