In Pretty’s ongoing “The Icon” series, we spotlight women whose beauty, artistry, and presence have shaped our culture — especially how we think about glamour and style. By that measure, Ella Fitzgerald belongs firmly in their ranks.

Ella wasn’t just the First Lady of Song. She was also a quiet but powerful style icon. Over the many decades of her career, she consistently projected an image of glamour and affluence that complemented her extraordinary talent. As Dr. Elizabeth Way, Curator of Costume and Accessories at The Museum at FIT, notes, Ella’s polished presence made her “an aspirational icon and an ambassador between Black culture and mainstream America.”

Looking back today, we can also see a woman whose body changed over time and who aged in the public eye. But despite the many pressures placed on women in the spotlight, Ella maintained a conspicuous fashionability that always felt true to her personality.

Meanwhile, although some jazz contemporaries leaned sultry or dramatic, Ella embodied an elegance that felt both refined and approachable. Her fashion mirrored her music: graceful, joyful, and accessible. She showed that glamour didn’t have to be flashy — it could simply mean being beautifully, confidently yourself.

What’s more, many elements of Ella’s look feel remarkably current right now. Pearls are undeniably having a renaissance, and brooches, once considered purely vintage, are reemerging as a chic finishing touch on jackets, bags, and sweaters. In a way, the “Ella Fitzgerald look” is quietly trending again, even if we don’t always name it as such.

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Modern Takes on Ella’s Style*

1. Sequins Without the Stage

Ella loved a touch of sparkle in her gowns, but it never felt overdone: just radiant enough to catch the light as she moved. Today, that spirit can translate into everyday life without looking costume-y. Think a sequined cardigan layered over jeans, a subtly shimmering midi skirt with a simple top, or a clutch with delicate sequin detailing. It’s a reminder that a little shine can feel celebratory, even on an ordinary day.

2. The Power of Pearls

From strands of pearls to delicate pearl earrings, this classic adornment was a frequent part of Ella’s look. Right now, modern pearls feel fresh again in simple, elegant forms. Think classic pearl hoops, sculptural studs, or a single strand worn with a minimalist outfit. As a result, they carry the same timeless grace Ella embodied, just updated for today.

3. Cinched Waists & Flowing Skirts

Ella often wore 1950s ballgown styles that emphasized a feminine waistline while allowing movement below. Much like her voice, her silhouette was structured yet fluid. You can channel that today with a belted wrap dress, a pleated midi skirt paired with a fitted knit, or even a tie-waist jumpsuit. The key is that balance: defined at the waist, free everywhere else.

4. Brooches & Unexpected Accessories

Ella had a fondness for brooches, those small but meaningful finishing touches that elevated an outfit. And it’s worth noting that brooches are very much back in style. To modernize this idea, try pinning a vintage-style brooch to a denim jacket, a tailored blazer, or a crossbody bag. It’s a subtle way to add personality — and a nod to Ella’s love of thoughtful detail.

5. Soft Glam Over Drama

Ella’s beauty look leaned toward the understated: glowing skin, soft eyeliner, and a natural lip. Today, that translates to rosy cream blush, brown or charcoal liner instead of harsh black, and a glossy or satin-finish lip in a warm pink or berry. Even if this softer approach isn’t always what’s “trending,” it can feel like a refreshing change from heavier, more done-up looks — and it aligns beautifully with Ella’s effortless elegance.

*Pretty may earn a small commission from affiliate links.

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The Ella Effect

Ella Fitzgerald’s voice will always be timeless, and her style feels just as enduring. She dressed with ease, joy, and confidence — and that’s the real lesson for us. Whether it’s a bit of sparkle, a strand of pearls, a cinched waist, or a favorite brooch, the point isn’t to copy her look so much as to borrow her attitude. Get your Ella on — and wear it like you mean it.