Tastemakers, Cher

Illustrated by Jacqueline Davis Moranti

Growing up as a young, adolescent female, it was tough finding a good role model. Growing up in the 90s you had your choices of sickly- sweet bubble gum pop stars, girl bands and boy bands. All of which were pretty g- rated and okay for children but where were the REAL and healthy influences when you needed them? My parents, during their youth had quite the free spirited and a hippy mindset which rubbed off on me. Besides listening to Chayenne, Marc Anthony and countless other Latin musicians, my parents also listened to early rock stars. One of my favorites was Cher. Her music was raw and full of emotion and as I got older I started to notice her funky and fearless way of dressing. I even tried emulating it, think fringe vests and cowboy boots. Those were some interesting school days! 

Cher was the original "Flower Girl" with her instinctive style. Feathers, fringe, sequins, beads, fur and leather are just some of the materials from some of Cher's iconic outfits. She is the epitome of care free glam, the poster child of Free People's catalogs! 

Remember bell bottoms? Cher was one of the earliest trendsetters for that style, she worked closely with her stylists to create unique bell bottoms. This style still remains a true wardrobe staple today, more than 40 years later! From brands like J Brand, Current/ Elliott, and Hudson that continually feature a seasonal pair of flared jeans.

And let's not forget to mention her influence of makeup trends, big lashes, vibrant colors, smokey eyes and raven haired glam! The middle [hair] part was made for her, as it was her signature do. Cher was also known for donning big, bold curls and even feathered head dresses. Cher's on stage outfits were always outrageous and fun, she never failed to impress her fans.

Images via Google

One of the things I've learned to embrace was that it's okay to think outside of the box and display my uncommon qualities with the world. It's definitely one of the things that Cher has inspired to me and many others, which is what makes her a taste maker. Be bold and do what your heart tells you to to do, dear readers!