I recently had the opportunity to hear one of Bette Davis’ longtime personal assistants speak at the DTLA city library — she had some fascinating stories about this icon of the Golden Age — or “Miss D” as she affectionately referred to her.

During the Q&A I asked her about a few of Ms. Davis’ favorite things, and I wanted to make sure to update an old post to reflect what I learned. So, as always, below are a few of her favorite things, along with a story or two about why she loved them.

Her Favorite ThingsStefanie CosmanDecember 9, 2018Bette DavisComment

Marlene Dietrich’s WWII Trenchcoat Inspiration

When she wasn't plotting ways to use fashion in dangerous and creative ways (more on that in a minute) Marlene Dietrich, starlet of the Golden Age of Hollywood, was known for her military-inspired fashion in an era that preferred pink and butterfly sleeves. One of the first fashionistas to pioneer trousers, we have her at least partially to thank for our comfy sweatpants.

Marlene Dietrich's New DVD Release and a Visit to Casablanca

Classic Cinema, Inspiration, The Cocktail Adventure, Month in ReviewStefanie CosmanAugust 27, 2018News, Hollywood, cinemaComment

Ava Gardner Movies: 55 Days to Peking

Ava Gardner, Inspiration, Golden Age of Cinema, Classic CinemaStefanie CosmanAugust 20, 2018Ava GardnerComment

Sexy Leopard Print [Science of Attraction]

The science of fashion is always a curious thing. I recently learned that cheetah/leopard prints make you more attractive. The scientific term is "Misattribution of Arousal" ... but since you probably don't want to sift through a bunch of medical journals, I will boil it down the main points: Ravenous wildcats have sharp teeth and want to eat you, therefore when one wears wildcat print men think of sharp teeth and being devoured, inciting a fear reaction, which somehow also increases feelings of attraction.

Fashion, Classic CinemaStefanie CosmanAugust 13, 2018Jeanne Crain, Leopard, Fashion, Classic Cinema, Gentlemen Marry Brunettes, Jane RussellComment

Hollywood Decor: Ava Gardner's Flea Market Chic

Ava Gardner never felt quite at home in Hollywood, but soon found her place in Madrid, a city she once said, resembled herself.

Embracing its culture of bullfighting and flamenco, she moved into a home in La Moraleja. She took her time decorating it, hand picking antiques she gathered from local markets. I love that she did this!

Classic Cinema, Ava GardnerStefanie CosmanJuly 16, 2018Interior Design, Classic CinemaComment

Be a Pest! Life Lessons from Lauren Bacall

Do a quick Google search on Lauren Bacall and you will get a steaming pile of stories of intimidation -- from what I can tell, a casual encounter with the woman could be an absolute dream -- or your worst nightmare. Perhaps it was her smoldering eyes that scared the living daylights out of people, but people seemed to be truly frightened by the woman.

Classic Films Made Here: Wandering the Warner Bros. Lot

It goes without saying -- Warner Brothers has made some of the greatest classic films ever, from Casablanca to Citizen Kane. Recently I attended an event at the lot -- whilst others thrilled at the free hot pretzels, and the house music blared from Gilmore Girls' gazebo (the party was hosted in the "Stars Hollow" set, one could literally enjoy a coffee in Luke's Diner), I was in starstruck wonderment of a different sort.

I wandered through the facades that once served as the setting for films such as Bonnie & Clyde, or Sinatra's Oceans 11; as you can imagine, I was in heaven.