Over the past month, we’ve been breaking down our list of 16 classic fashion icons everyone should know. Last week, we covered Jane Birkin — a symbol of effortless European fashion. This week, we’ll be talking about the American icon, influence, and hero that is Diana Ross.

She’s known to many as the most successful female entertainer ever. With countless awards to her name and a string of chart-topping hits, Diana is a stunning example of a powerful woman who has changed the world.

Keep reading to find out more about Diana’s early life, musical achievements, and how you can channel her look!

Table of Contents

All About Diana

Before the Spotlight

Diana was born in Detroit in 1944. Her given name was actually Diane, but a typing error listed it as Diana. Her close friends and family still call her Diane.

She grew up in the same neighborhood as music legend Smokey Robinson and used to watch him rehearse.

As a teenager, Diana lived in the housing projects of Detroit and worked to help support her family. She also studied at a magnet school where she majored in costume design and learned all kinds of trades, from tailoring to modeling and makeup.

Workin’ Overtime

Diana’s music career began at 15 when she joined a group called The Primettes. They were soon signed to a new record label based out of Detroit — Motown Records.

The group’s name was changed to The Supremes, and you know what happened next! With The Supremes, Diana sang on 12 number one hit singles, including tracks like “Where Did Our Love Go,” “Baby Love,” and “Stop! In The Name of Love.”

When she got her first check for royalties from Motown, Diana bought her mom a house and moved them both out of the projects. She told Rolling Stone that “each of the girls bought houses on the same street.” Squad goals.