Ingrid Style

Can I just say that I love Ingrid Bergman? And yes, it must seem like I gush a lot about classic movie stars on here (lol), but truly, I think she may be my favorite dramatic actress (just missing the very top spot due to my all time bestest Judy Garland and comedienne dancer extraordinaire Ginger Rogers). And I've only yet scratched the surface of her film career (although I've got a number of her Lux Radio Theater performances on my fan resume, as well ;).

Originally from Sweden, where she made her first dozen films, Ingrid Bergman brought to Hollywood a rich, soft voice with a charming accent, which always set her apart. When she spoke, she was absolute royalty. The rest of her charms; a sensitive, quivering mouth that always broke into a wide and winning smile at just the right moment, and sparkling blue eyes to match, made the captivation complete. 

The Golden Age of film turned out a lot of beautiful women, but it's to be mourned that so many of them were "glamour-ized" until nothing natural remained. Ingrid was fortunate enough to come to Hollywood under the protective arm of David O' Selznik, who kept her safe from the interference of the often overly passionate makeup and hair artists, and allowed her to keep her own "face."

One thing that I find so fascinating about Ingrid is how much of a realistic woman she appears to be one screen. Oh yes, she's polished, well-groomed and presented, but she seems real. Attainable. Not like the  "women" that are often held up as the standard of loveliness these days. She was stunning. So naturally, un-affectedly, truly beautiful. 

Of course, this post would be incomplete without touching on Ingrid's wonderful style. The first image in this post is a publicity still for Casablanca, her most famous film (and a classic I highly recommend). In this photo she is wearing a beautiful summer dress, with a sheer overlay, a spectacular large ring. In the second still Ingrid's looking superbly elegant in a sleek button-up dress/coat piece, with a cinched waistline and an ethereal sheer scarf as an accessory. It's a beautiful ensemble and one that suits her perfectly.

If you click the image below you can view one of the memorable moments in Casablanca and see some of the subtlety and depth of Ingrid's acting. Not to mention the classy, white suit she's sporting. ;) Take a look...

Now it's your turn! Which Ingrid Bergman films have you seen or recommend? I must say that Notorius is probably my personal fave (and also on my unofficial "top ten best old movies of all time" list). Cary Grant actually doesn't get on my nerves in that one... ;)

Thanks again for reading AmandaBeth, I so appreciate you all! Please be sure to have a fabulous rest of the week! *hugs*