The last century saw the rise of some of the most iconic and luxurious actresses in Hollywood, whose beauty, style, and charisma captivated audiences worldwide. Marlene Dietrich, born in 1901 in Germany, became a symbol of sensuality and femme fatale allure in films such as The Blue Angel and Shanghai Express. Although rumors of affairs with other celebrities circulated, Dietrich remained devoted to her husband, whom she married in 1927. Another star who left a significant mark was Jayne Mansfield, often compared to Marilyn Monroe for their similar looks. Born in 1933, Mansfield’s career was short but memorable, starring in films like The Girl Can’t Help It and The Wayward Bus. Known for her bold persona, she also participated in Playboy photoshoots and became a mother of five before her tragic death in 1967.

Other actresses, such as Ann Sheridan, Jane Russell, and Greta Garbo, also made unforgettable contributions to cinema. Sheridan, originally named Clara, was discovered at 19 and quickly became a notable actress with roles in Angels Wash Their Faces and Dodge City. Jane Russell gained fame thanks to her contract with Howard Hughes, starring alongside Marilyn Monroe in Gentlemen Prefer Blondes. Greta Garbo, often called the “Scandinavian Sphinx” for her cool beauty, rose to stardom in silent films and was awarded an honorary Oscar for her overall contribution to the art of cinema. Similarly, Joan Crawford, born Lucille LeSueur, was a fierce competitor to Garbo and Dietrich, winning an Oscar and two Golden Globes during her career, with Mildred Pierce and Baby Jane among her most famous roles.

The list of luxurious actresses continues with figures like Bette Davis and Lana Turner, both of whom had illustrious careers. Bette Davis, despite facing challenges and even periods of unemployment, was nominated for ten Oscars and starred in the iconic What Ever Happened to Baby Jane?. Lana Turner, a model-turned-actress, became a cultural icon, known for her pin-up images during WWII and roles in The Postman Always Rings Twice and Peyton Place. Other notable stars include Natalie Wood, known for her roles in West Side Story and Rebel Without a Cause, and Donna Reed, who rose to fame with It’s a Wonderful Life and later won an Oscar for From Here to Eternity.

In the realm of European cinema, actresses like Sophia Loren, Gina Lollobrigida, and Brigitte Bardot became global symbols of beauty and elegance. Sophia Loren, an Italian beauty, began her career in her teens and went on to win multiple Oscars, including an honorary one for her career in cinema. Gina Lollobrigida, another Italian, was initially drawn to art and opera before making her mark in Hollywood, particularly with her role in Fanfan la Tulipe. Brigitte Bardot, who started as a model, became a sensation with films like And God Created Woman, becoming one of the most famous actresses of her time. These women, each with their own unique journey, shaped the cinematic landscape and left lasting legacies in the industry.

Finally, actresses like Hedy Lamarr and Vera Zorina added to the list of glamorous women who made their names in Hollywood. Hedy Lamarr, an Austrian-born actress, rose to fame after starring in Ecstasy and later became a successful inventor. Vera Zorina, originally a ballerina, transitioned to film and starred in notable movies such as I Was a Fireman and Star Spangled Rhythm. Each of these women helped define beauty, elegance, and grace for generations, cementing their place in the golden age of Hollywood and continuing to inspire future generations of actresses.