Babe Paley, born Barbara Cushing Mortimer Paley on July 5, 1915, in Boston, Massachusetts, was a notable American figure known for her contributions to magazine editing and her prominent status as a socialite. Raised in a family of high social standing, Babe, along with her sisters Mary and Betsey, was part of the elite circle known as ‘The Fabulous Cushing Sisters’.
Babe Paley received her education at prestigious institutions such as the Westover School in Middlebury, Connecticut, and the Winsor School in Boston. Her debut into society as a debutante in 1934 marked the beginning of her journey in the social scene, where she captivated attention with her elegance and charm, even during the Great Depression.
Babe Paley’s Plastic Surgery
After a car accident in 1934, she suffered injuries that left her with bruises, blemishes, and knocked-out front teeth. To restore her appearance, Babe opted for plastic surgery, a medical procedure that aims to improve a person’s physical features. The surgery successfully repaired her injuries, leaving her with unblemished and perhaps even more enhanced beauty than before.
This decision to undergo plastic surgery was likely influenced by Babe’s desire to maintain her social standing and appearance within high society. As a prominent figure in New York’s elite circles, Babe Paley was accustomed to a life of privilege and glamour. In such circles, physical appearance and elegance often held significant importance, and any imperfections could be seen as detrimental to one’s reputation.
By opting for plastic surgery, Babe Paley not only sought to restore her physical appearance but also to uphold the standards of beauty and sophistication expected of women in her social circle. In doing so, she demonstrated a willingness to invest in her image and maintain her status among her peers.
Who Was Babe Paley?
Throughout her life, Babe Paley made significant strides in the field of magazine editing, leaving a lasting impact on the industry. Her distinctive fashion sense earned her induction into the International Best Dressed List Hall of Fame in 1958. Babe Paley’s influence extended beyond her professional achievements; she was also known for her marriages to prominent figures.
She was first married to Stanley G. Mortimer Jr., a sportsman, and later to William S. Paley, the founder of CBS. Babe Paley’s legacy as a magazine editor and socialite continues to be remembered, highlighting her lasting impact on American culture and fashion. She passed away on July 6, 1978, in New York City, leaving behind a remarkable legacy that remains celebrated to this day.
Full Name | Barbara Cushing Mortimer Paley |
Nickname | Babe |
Date of Birth | July 5, 1915 |
Place of Birth | Boston, Massachusetts, U.S. |
Date of Death | July 6, 1978 |
Place of Death | New York City, U.S. |
Resting Place | Memorial Cemetery, St. John’s Church, Cold Spring Harbor, New York |
Occupation | Magazine editor, socialite |
Spouses | Stanley G. Mortimer Jr. (m. 1940, div. 1946)
William S. Paley (m. 1947) |
Children | 4 |
Babe Paley’s Career
Babe Paley began her career in 1938 as a fashion editor at Vogue magazine in New York City. Her job allowed her to work with designer clothing, which she often showcased due to her high-profile image. Her impeccable sense of style earned her recognition, and in 1941, Time magazine ranked her as the world’s second-best dressed woman. She continued to impress fashion enthusiasts, appearing on best-dressed lists in 1945 and 1946.
Despite her success in the fashion world, Babe’s career took a different turn after her second marriage in 1947. Following her marriage to William S. Paley, the founder of CBS, Babe decided to leave her position at Vogue. This decision marked a shift in her focus from professional pursuits to her role as a socialite and wife.
The Passing of Babe Paley
Babe Paley passed away on July 6, 1978, at the age of 63. She died just one day after celebrating her birthday. Her death was due to lung cancer, which she had been diagnosed with in 1974. Despite her illness, Babe remained strong and meticulously planned her own funeral arrangements, including details such as the food and wine to be served.
She also made arrangements for the distribution of her jewelry collection and personal belongings among her friends and family after her passing. Following her death, Babe Paley was laid to rest in the Memorial Cemetery of St. John’s Church in Cold Spring Harbor, New York. Her husband, William Paley, who passed away in 1990, was later buried beside her.
Babe Paley’s Car Accident
In 1934, at the age of 19, Babe Paley experienced a life-changing event: a car accident. This accident had a significant impact on her life. As a result of the crash, Babe lost her front teeth and needed surgery to reconstruct her jaw. It was a difficult time for her, but she showed remarkable resilience and determination to overcome the challenges that followed.
Despite the adversity she faced, Babe did not let the accident define her. Instead, she used it as a catalyst to pursue a career in the fashion industry. Just one year after the accident, Babe began working at Glamour magazine, and by 1939, she had risen to the prestigious position of editor at Vogue. Her talent and dedication propelled her to success, and her impeccable style captivated the world.
FAQs
- Did Babe Paley undergo plastic surgery?
Yes, Babe Paley did undergo plastic surgery after a car accident in 1934.
- When did Babe Paley pass away?
Babe Paley passed away on July 6, 1978, one day after her 63rd birthday.
- What was Babe Paley’s career?
Babe Paley began her career as a fashion editor at Vogue magazine in 1938.
- Who was Babe Paley married to?
Babe Paley was married first to Stanley G. Mortimer Jr. and later to William S. Paley, co-founder of CBS.
- What legacy did Babe Paley leave behind?
Babe Paley left behind a legacy as a fashion icon and socialite, known for her impeccable style and elegance.
In conclusion, Babe Paley was not only a prominent figure in American society but also a symbol of elegance and sophistication. Her decision to undergo plastic surgery following a car accident exemplifies her determination to maintain her image within high society. Despite facing personal challenges, Babe Paley’s influence continues to be felt in the realms of fashion and culture, leaving behind a legacy that remains celebrated to this day. Visit – NewsPSP | NewsDekha