Josephine Baker// Tyra Banks

"She was a dancer, a singer, an actress, a comedian all in one."

Hey guys!

So, this is definitely a long belated blog entry but I finally got to catch the episode where Tyra Banks "channels" Josephine Baker.
Being a loyal fan of America's Next Top Model, I knew Tyra would deliver nothing but her best with her knowledge of fashion history.
It was definitely interesting to see how Josephine Baker would be portrayed in today's society.
I'm currently enrolled in a course named, [Design, Art and Society] so I've been researching lots on fashion history. 
Since seeing the episode of Tyra Bank's portrayal of Josephine Baker, I decided to do a little more research on Josephine Baker in modern popular culture.


Josephine Baker with her famous cheetah.

For all you animated movie fans! This is extremely exciting. I've always been a huge fan of Anastasia
Josephine Baker was featured in Anastasia!

Josephine Baker tribute in Anastasia 1997, wearing her iconic banana skirt with her cheetah!

Notice the diamond collar on the animated cheetah?? Fact: Baker's cheetah Chiquita was definitely spotted in it a few times!
The meticulous detailing of animation here is remarkable.
This is part of the "Paris holds the key to your heart" number, so check it out if you haven't done so!

Tyra Banks as Josephine Baker in an episode of Gossip Girl [Season 3]

So, I understand that some people are probably somewhat offended about including such an iconic figure in an episode of Gossip Girl for a mere few minutes but I really think the effort should be applauded. To bring the spirit of Josephine Baker back into the present, even for a few minutes, brings history back to life. For younger generations that don't know who Josephine Baker is, Tyra Banks has just created an entry for her into these people's knowledge. I really appreciate the fact that they took Josephine Baker's look/fashion into consideration but found a way to make it their own in this particular episode. It's refreshing to see the take on Josephine Baker's look in modern society. My verdict? thumbs up for Gossip Girl and Tyra Banks, I was pleased and excited to see this portrayal.

Check out Tyra talking about Gossip Girl// her portrayal of Josephine Baker

Toodles till later:)
xxTammy