The Life and Legacy of Activist and Style Maven Josephine Baker
The performer made her mark thanks her sensational style but is also remembered and revered for her passion and commitment to fighting for social and cultural change.
Born in St. Louis, Missouri, in 1906, Josephine Baker (née McDonald) came by her talent naturally: Both of her parents made their livings by performing in shows throughout the Midwest, often bringing little Josephine on stage with them. Eventually, Baker joined a Vaudeville troupe at the age of 15, where she found success performing. She was also married during this time, becoming Josephine Baker, which she kept as her name for the rest of her life.
After touring with her troupe, Baker eventually found her way to New York City, where she was an active part of the Harlem Renaissance before ultimately moving to Paris. She was one of the most recognized and successful performers during this time thanks to her singing, dancing, and extraordinary costumes. But, more importantly, Baker was also passionate about what was going on in the world around her.
During World War II, Baker helped fight against the Nazis by spying on enemy troops during her performances and passing along information she gathered to the Allied forces. After moving back to the U.S., Baker spoke out during the Civil Rights Movement, fighting for equal rights for African Americans.
Baker's life and legacy continue to be celebrated today as she became the first Black woman to be inducted into the Panthéon, France's tomb of national heroes. During the ceremony on November 30, 2021, French President Emmanuel Macron said Baker "had a certain idea of humankind and fought for the freedom of everyone. Her cause was universalism, the unity of humanity, the equality of everyone ahead of the identity of each single person.”
Here, we examine 15 moments from Baker's illustrious career where she made a splash, both with her dress and her actions.
1925
Baker sweetly poses over a tiger rug dressed in a silk and jeweled evening gown and wearing her signature oversize statement earrings.
1926
Baker, whose parents were both performers, got her start singing in several Vaudeville shows before moving to Harlem. Here, she is wrapped in a cacophony of luxurious feathers.
1927
Pictured here with her new husband, Count Pepito Abatino, Baker was at this time living and dancing in Paris, where she moved after her success in New York City.
1928
Baker poses for a beauty shot with her signature look: hair curled, wearing a bold red lip, and sporting large, round earrings.
1928
Baker, who worked as a spy during the WWII by passing along information she heard while performing for Axis troops, was known for her over-the-top style and luxurious ensembles.
1930
An elaborate costume of feathers, chunky jewelry, and a large headpiece gives Baker, who performed with the Parisian Folies Bergere, an otherworldly air.
1930
Baker was a multitalented performer: She could sing and dance and even acted in several motion pictures. Here, she stops for a photograph in another tulle-and-feathers creation.
1933
A studio portrait of Baker, which is perhaps one of her most famous, captures the star in all her costumed glory, thanks to a magnificent train, sleek bob, and eye-catching jewelry.
1951
Baker stands on stage with children at a performance in Los Angeles dressed in a striped and ruffled skirt and feathered turban decorated with a rooster and chicken that make for a statement-making ensemble.
1960
Here, Baker performs at the Olympia in Miami, Florida, in a beaded, sequined gown and a feathered headdress for the ages.
1960
Baker, who was an advocate for civil rights and spoke out against segregation and racism in the U.S., adopted children from all over the world as a way of showing that those of different cultures and races could make a family.
1970
A regal photograph of Baker, this image shows her in a beaded sweetheart evening gown, complete with an elegant train, fabulous jewelry, and a dramatic hairpiece.
1973
Baker, who was recognized by the NAACP for her work for civil rights advancement, was one of the only female speakers in Washington, D.C., for the March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom. She performs here in yet another stunning turban and gem-spangled costume.
1973
A vision, indeed: A performance in Paris by Baker was an experience for all the senses.
1975
Baker performed until 1975, when she gave her last show before passing later that year. She was remembered for her larger-than-life presence and her commitment to the controversial yet critical issues of her time.
Rachael Burrow is the Style Director at VERANDA, covering the latest design and market trends, from jewelry to fashion, tabletop to furnishings, and everything in between.
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