Women have shaped history and made their mark on society, from breaking palace rules to starring on the silver screen, to everything in between. Here are some powerhouse women from past and present who have inspired me.
Princess Diana
When I was in third grade, I was obsessed with Princess Diana. I read biographies, looked at glossy photos of her amazing wedding dress and other fashionable moments. The idea of diamond tiaras, custom-made gowns and life at the palace was enthralling.
Yet Princess Diana was an incredible woman who challenged the status quo, broke some of the formalities of the British crown and used her power to reach out and help people from all walks of life. She is remembered as the Queen of People’s Hearts.
Anne Boleyn
As I mentioned about being fascinated by history and royalty, I stumbled upon the movie “The Other Boleyn Girl” and read the book by the same name. Long story short, Anne Boleyn was the second wife of the infamous King Henry VIII.
Although she lived almost 500 years ago, her story is more dramatic than a Lifetime movie. Her life ended tragically, but she is known for shaking up the monarchy and her incredible wit, causing England to break with the Catholic Church.
Jackie Kennedy Onassis
Switching over from British royalty to American, Jackie O is an icon. She is known for her glamorous fashionable moments and intellect. Following the death of JFK, Jackie went on to be a book editor.
Marilyn Monroe
Marilyn is known as the sex symbol in America with her signature red lips and platinum hair. However, her seemingly movie-starlet life was not perfect and she was much more than the girl on screen and became a movie star from humble beginnings.
Kelly Clarkson
I listened to her “Breakaway” CD so many times, I knew each song by heart. Kelly Clarkson is a talented vocalist who produced many hits and stood up for herself, releasing “My December,” in which she wrote many personal songs against her manager’s wishes. Go Kelly!
Diane Sawyer
Diane Sawyer is an iconic journalist, appearing on “Good Morning America” and “World News Tonight.” She has paved the way for women journalists and has enjoyed a successful career.
Michelle Obama
Michelle Obama is a powerhouse, shining as bright as her husband, the President of the United States. Michelle attended Harvard Law School and is a lawyer and writer. She is known for her sense of style, and often chooses American designers.
Joanna Coles
Joanna Coles is the editor of Cosmopolitan magazine, which for decades has crossed boundaries with groundbreaking articles covering issues about equal pay, treatment of women in the workplace, college sexual assault cover-ups, as well as entertaining health and beauty topics.