Inspired by this baby-faced shot of the music icon, which became our most Loved image of the week, we examine the inimitable style of Cher
Cherilyn Sarkisian, born in California in 1946, was always destined to be a superstar. Her unusual contralto voice, irrepressible determination and penchant for feather, sequins, fringing and voluminous head-dresses has seen her lead the way for generations of followers – and as proved by this photograph of her in the studio at the tender age of 19, Loved by Laura Edwards this week – she’s utterly deserving of the title.
Cher’s early life was not an easy one – she was moved from place to place for a number of years, spending time in an orphanage, and even recalls using rubber bands to tie her shoes together as a child – but the difficulties she endured at an early age only spurred her on. “I couldn’t think of anything that I could do,” she is quoted as saying of her early ambitions. “I didn’t think I’d be a singer or dancer. I just thought, well, I’ll be famous. That was my goal.”
Her career kicked off with impromptu performances for her fellow students over their lunchbreak at school, followed by Cher’s dropping out of education altogether at the age of 16 to perform in clubs on the Sunset Strip. Now, more than 50 years later, the singer, actress and fashion icon has a number one record in each of the last five decades, plus an Oscar, a Grammy, an Emmy and three Golden Globes under her belt, not to mention a global following of dedicated fans and a wardrobe which spurred a generation of girls to don bell-bottom jeans and dye their hair black, in her image. We caught up with Edwards to find out why this lesser-known photograph of the star caught her eye.
What made you decide to Love this photograph of Cher in the studio at 19?
I was going through some research when I came across it, and I was reminded how iconic she is. She is a total babe! I love everything about it: the colours, the outfit, the makeup and her attitude.
What’s your favourite ever Cher style moment, and why?
Every. Single. One. She literally never gets old!
If you could turn back time, where would you go and why?
I would go back to last night and wear trainers to the party I went to, and not new high heels. I let myself down on an awesome dance floor and had to hobble home earlier than i wanted to. My feet still hurt.
Witch or mermaid?
A witch, everytime. I'm currently rewatching Charmed, so I'm into it. Also... Powers.
If you were a famous popstar, who would design your on-stage outfits?
Myself.
Are you more Cher Sarkisian or Cher Horowitz?
Sarkisian! Don't get me wrong, I love a bit of clueless, but there is really no contest.
If you could record a song with anyone, dead or alive, who would it be?
Either Joy Division, or Jay Z.
What’s the last thing you bought?
A vintage Chloe top on Depop, but it just arrived, and it has some major fake tan stains around the collar :/
What are you most excited about in the coming months?
Everything.
