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23/03/2016 15:20 GMT | Updated 23/03/2016 15:22 GMT

25 Style Lessons We Could All Take From Elizabeth Taylor

Arguably the world's most desirable woman, Elizabeth Taylor died five years ago today.

Elizabeth Taylor lived fast and plentifully, married seven men - one twice - nearly died umpteen times through serious illness, fought like a tigress for the people she loved and the causes she embraced, and finally left us five years ago today. 

Ron Galella via Getty Images
Whether it was a new jewel or a husband, Elizabeth Taylor always had the perfect accessory.

Through all that, from her stature as a child star to arguably the world's most desirable woman, she acquitted herself with wit, a twinkle in her eye, more twinkles on her bejewelled fingers and, invariably, in great style. 

Here, on the anniversary death, are just 25 lessons in being your best, from the woman who left it in her will that she would be a few minutes late, yes, even to her own funeral. 

We miss you, Ms Taylor, and there's no one quite like you around. 

  • Plaid Can Definitely Be Pretty
    Plaid Can Definitely Be Pretty
    ullstein bild via Getty Images
    The checked print doesn't always have to evoke a lumberjack.
  • Sometimes, You Just Need To Dress Up
    Sometimes, You Just Need To Dress Up
    API via Getty Images
    Ladylike gowns aren't going anywhere fast.
  • Keeping It Casual Is Also Cool
    Keeping It Casual Is Also Cool
    Mark Kauffman via Getty Images
    A simple sweatshirt can be just as effective as a dress, especially if diamond accessories are involved.
  • Elegance Is Key
    Elegance Is Key
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  • You Can Still Be Sexy While Covered Up
    You Can Still Be Sexy While Covered Up
    API via Getty Images
    It's all about balance! As proven by Liz, a sheer shirt with a cami underneath reveals the illusion of bare skin, providing just the right amount of allure and mystery.
  • Lingerie Is Undeniably Sexy
    Lingerie Is Undeniably Sexy
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    Even if it's quite conservative.
  • Details Are Key
    Details Are Key
    Earl Theisen Collection via Getty Images
    Liz knew that interesting details, like a laced or scalloped hem, went a long way in making an outfit memorable.
  • Holiday Dressing Doesn't Need To Be Tacky
    Holiday Dressing Doesn't Need To Be Tacky
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    See?
  • Athletic Wear Is Most Definitely Cool
    Athletic Wear Is Most Definitely Cool
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    How can one make a parker look so cool?
  • One-Pieces Are Ridiculously Classy
    One-Pieces Are Ridiculously Classy
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    Especially when they're leopard print.
  • You Can't Go Wrong With A Fur Stole
    You Can't Go Wrong With A Fur Stole
    Darlene Hammond via Getty Images
    So plush, so classy.
  • Airport Style is Most Definitely Important
    Airport Style is Most Definitely Important
    New York Daily News Archive via Getty Images
    You may want to be comfy, but that doesn't mean you can't look stylish at the same time.
  • See What We Mean?
    See What We Mean?
    New York Daily News Archive via Getty Images
    Liz knew that even at the airport, she had to step up her style game.
  • The Right Jewelry Can Make All The Difference
    The Right Jewelry Can Make All The Difference
    Silver Screen Collection via Getty Images
    Big earrings (or a statement necklace) can bring an ensemble to the next level.
  • Separates Are Just As Great As Dresses
    Separates Are Just As Great As Dresses
    New York Daily News Archive via Getty Images
    Because sometimes, you just prefer a skirt.
  • Floral Prints Always Look Fresh
    Floral Prints Always Look Fresh
    Mondadori via Getty Images
    So pretty!
  • Crisp White Is Oh-So-Classy
    Crisp White Is Oh-So-Classy
    Francois LOCHON via Getty Images
    Isn't it? There's just something about a crisp white shirt that speaks to us.
  • A Little Bit Of Lipstick Goes A Long Way
    A Little Bit Of Lipstick Goes A Long Way
    Keystone Features via Getty Images
    One's beauty look is just as important as their outfit.
  • Showing Off Your Curves Is A Positive Thing
    Showing Off Your Curves Is A Positive Thing
    API via Getty Images
    Even if you don't do it all the time, showing off those curves of yours can really add a boost of confidence.
  • Great Tailoring Is Necessary
    Great Tailoring Is Necessary
    New York Daily News Archive via Getty Images
    Because every lady needs a sharp power blazer.
  • Smart Is Always Sexy
    Smart Is Always Sexy
    Mondadori via Getty Images
    Enough said.
  • Accessories Are Just As Important As Your Outfit
    Accessories Are Just As Important As Your Outfit
    Keystone-France via Getty Images
    Whether a cute clutch, a sparkly brooch, or a wrist full of bracelets, sometimes you've just got to let your accessories speak for themselves.
  • Animals Almost Always Make An Outfit Better
    Animals Almost Always Make An Outfit Better
    New York Daily News Archive via Getty Images
    So cute! And we know pets aren't accessories, but that doesn't mean they can't elevate one's style.
  • It's OK To Show Off A Little Leg
    It's OK To Show Off A Little Leg
    GAB Archive via Getty Images
    Especially if the rest of your ensemble is demure.
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