The Enduring Influence Of The Other Taylor

This week, the buzz has been about Liz Taylor, whose collection of couture, jewels, and accessories has just hit Christie’s. But on the pre-fall rounds, it’s another Taylor being name-dropped: Colorado socialite Ann Bonfoey Taylor. Taylor’s been in the news as well of late, thanks to a recent Phoenix Art Museum retrospective of her enviable collection of Balenciaga, Charles James, Madame Grès, and Hermès. We spotlighted Taylor as a Beauty Icon earlier this year, and for his pre-fall collection, Michael Kors chose her as his inspiration—”Nan Kempner on the range,” he said. That influence worked itself out in Mongolian lamb and cold-weather chic, especially coats. Above and below, Taylor herself, alongside a few of Kors’ creations in homage.