“Beauty is how you feel on the inside, and it reflects in your eyes. It is not something physical.” – Sophia Loren

Welcome back to Underrated Icons, a column that looks at the styles of icons past and present, specifically icons that don’t always get the credit they deserve.

As we go into Valentine’s Month, this week we’re going to be covering someone who embodies romantic style – iconic actress Sophia Loren. 

Born in 1934 in Rome, Italy, Sophia Loren’s film career began in 1950 at the age of 15, and has spanned over 60 years. She was the first person to win an Oscar for a performance in a foreign film, and she has a Grammy, a BAFTA, five Golden Globes, and six David di Donatello (the Italian Oscars) Awards, holding the record for the most earned. She was the first female celebrity to come out with a perfume in 1980 and later also came out with her own line of eyewear.

In her personal life, Loren was the ultimate romantic, married to Carlo Ponti, Sr. from 1966 up until his death in 2007. When asked if she would remarry, she responded, “No, never again. It would be impossible to love anyone else.”

Here are some ways to channel your inner vintage romantic, just like Sophia.

Table of Contents

Luxe Romance

Products: Blouse – Forever 21, Skirt – Amazon, Heels – Windsor, Bag – Charlotte Russe, Keychain – Farfetch, Jewelry Set – Macy’s, Lipstick – Bergdorf Goodman, Eyeliner – Macy’s, Brow Pencil – Target

Emulate Sophia’s signature feminine look for a date by pairing a satin blouse with a black circle midi skirt and tying the shirt up to emphasize your waist. To balance the heavy look, wear dainty heels. For accessories, give a classic nude quilted bag a modern update by attaching a trendy pom pom keychain, and wear a matching necklace and earring set.