Over the past few weeks, we’ve been breaking down our list of 16 classic fashion icons everyone should know. 

Last week, we covered Marilyn Monroe, seductive actress extraordinaire. This week, we’ll be talking about the princess of both Hollywood and Monaco, Grace Kelly.

The Pennsylvania-born star is recognized for being an incredible actress, partnering with director Alfred Hitchcock on multiple films, and also for becoming the Princess of Monaco when she married Prince Rainier III. Her sophisticated beauty has never been forgotten.

Keep reading to find out more about Grace’s upbringing, acting career, and journey into royalty!

Table of Contents

All About Grace

Dreaming of the Pictures

Grace grew up in a wealthy and well-to-do family. Her father was an Olympic gold medalist, and her mother was a coach and P.E instructor at the University of Pennsylvania. She had an uncle who was a vaudeville star, and another who was a Pulitzer Prize-winning writer.

Throughout her childhood, Grace attended school and occasionally did modeling along with her sisters and mother.

Grace dreamed of being an actress, much to the displeasure of her parents. They overlooked her accomplishments in favor of her sister, Peggy. Her father is quoted as once saying “I thought it would be Peggy whose name would be up in lights one day.”

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But Grace had big aspirations, and after graduating Catholic school, she set off to study acting in New York City

At this time, Grace lived at the famous Barbizon Hotel for Women. Back then, the residency was known for being a prestigious place for up-and-coming female professionals (including Sylvia Plath, Liza Minelli, and so many more). No men were allowed after 10 pm and there were strict dress codes. (Fun fact: If you’ve read The Bell Jar, this place may sound familiar because it served as inspiration.)