In Photos: Joan Crawford's Most Glamorous Old Hollywood Moments

After Joan Crawford landed her breakthrough role in The Unknown in 1927, the actress became one of silent film's newest stars. Here, the young actress poses in not one, but two diamond necklaces and a white fur stole.

Crawford looks the part of a 1920s flapper in a leopard print-trimmed silk dress. The actress, who got her start as a dancer and then as a Broadway chorus girl, was the star of six pictures in 1928.

Silent films were soon replaced with "talkies," as the industry advanced sound technology. Although some actors failed to transition to the new medium, Crawford's career reached new heights as a film star.

Crawford lounges among frilly lace pillows in this portrait of the film star from 1930. The actress entered 1930 with much success, her first sound film Untamed was met with huge success at the box office and she soon became MGM's darling.

Crawford poses for a glamour shot in 1930. That same year, the actress released four films, including Our Blushing Brides and Montana Moon.

The actress wears a stunning off-the-shoulder evening gown while posing for a photograph in 1931. That same year, she starred in one of her biggest pictures yet, Dance, Fools Dance.

Crawford, born Lucille Fay LeSueur, was named by the public. MGM studio listed a $1,000 prize for her naming contest after the actress signed a contract with the studio. Crawford won, but the actress was known to have hated the stage name.

Wearing an outfit by famed Hollywood costumer, Gilbert Adrian, Crawford films a scene in the iconic film Letty Lynton. The two-toned sequin halter top gown has since gone down as one of the best dresses in movie history.

Crawford reveals a bare back in this halter-top ensemble, as she leans against a wall and gives a sultry stare during a 1932 photoshoot.

In true movie star form, Crawford wraps up in a luxurious fur-lined coat in 1932.

The actress sports a summery look during an MGM studio photoshoot in 1932, featuring a white belted dress, a sun hat, and gloves.

Crawford is photographed in a ruffled chiffon top in 1932. The actress, whose career spanned nearly 50 years, came to develop her signature arched eyebrows in the early '30s.

Crawford strikes a pose that showcases the beadwork on her fringe evening gown. The actress wore the elaborate costume for her role in Dragon Lady.

Crawford relaxes in a white cutout one piece swimsuit on the lawn of her California home in 1933. The actress, who married actor Douglas Fairbanks in 1929, officially divorced him the same year this photo was taken.

Her wide leg sailor pant, white top, and large sun hat give off a bit of a nautical flair, as the actress poses outside of her home.

Crawford models a black and white evening gown fit with frills throughout the neck and sleeves. In 1933, the actress starred in two major films, Today We Live and Dancing Lady.

Wearing another exquisite creation by Gilbert Adrian, Crawford strikes a pose in a sequin cape for her movie Sadie McKee.

By 1934, Crawford was one of the most successful stars at MGM and she soon became one of the highest paid women in Hollywood.

Crawford looks directly at the camera as she poses in a ruffled top. Here, the actress wears her hair in her classic soft waves.