Carrie Donovan: The Fashion Icon Behind Fabulous
A Legendary Fashion Editor and Commercials Star
Carrie Donovan is best known for her iconic roles as a fashion editor for prestigious magazines like Vogue, Harper's Bazaar, and The New York Times Magazine, as well as her unforgettable appearances in Old Navy commercials in the 1990s. With her signature large eyeglasses and black attire, Donovan coined the phrase "Fabulous" and became a household name.
Early Life and Career
Born Carolyn Gertrude Amelia Donovan on March 22, 1928, in Lake Placid, New York, Donovan's early life was marked by her father's absence and her mother's struggles. Despite these challenges, Donovan's passion for fashion was ignited at a young age. She mailed her own design sketches to actress
Jane Wyman at just 10 years old, receiving a handwritten response that encouraged her to pursue her dreams.
Donovan attended the Parsons School of Design, graduating in 1950. Although she never learned to sew, she relied on her classmates to help her with her projects. Additionally, Donovan never mastered the typewriter, preferring to write her copy by hand throughout her 30-year journalism career.
Rise to Fame
Donovan's first job was at Saks Fifth Avenue, where she worked under the guidance of Tatiana Liberman, wife of
Alexander Liberman, the editor of Vogue. Her talent and dedication caught the attention of The New York Times Magazine, which recruited her in 1955. A few years later,
Diana Vreeland of Vogue noticed Donovan's work, and she joined the magazine's team.
As a style editor for Vogue, Harper's Bazaar, and The New York Times Magazine, Donovan gained recognition for her impeccable taste and expertise. She served as senior editor at Harper's Bazaar from 1972 to 1977 before returning to The New York Times Magazine.
Old Navy Commercials and "Fabulous"
In the 1990s, Donovan's career took an unexpected turn when she began starring in Old Navy commercials. With her distinctive glasses and black outfits, Donovan declared various fashion items "Fabulous," often alongside Magic the dog and other celebrities. Her humorous and endearing performances made her a beloved figure, earning her a parody on Saturday Night Live by
Ana Gasteyer.
Personal Milestones and Legacy
Despite her many accomplishments, Donovan's personal life was marked by challenges. She never had a relationship with her father, and her mother struggled to provide for her and her sister. However, Donovan's determination and passion for fashion propelled her to success.
Today, Carrie Donovan is remembered as a true fashion icon, celebrated for her contributions to the industry and her unforgettable on-screen presence. Her legacy continues to inspire new generations of fashion enthusiasts, designers, and editors.
Awards and Honors
- Awarded the prestigious Coty American Fashion Critics' Award
- Received the Fashion Award from the Fashion Institute of Technology
Trivia and Fun Facts
- Donovan was often mistaken for Natalie Schafer, Mrs. Howell from Gilligan's Island, due to her similar appearance and the presence of other sitcom stars in Old Navy commercials.
- She was known for her love of dogs and often featured them in her work.
FAQ
What was Carrie Donovans career as a journalist?
Carrie Donovan was an American journalist and fashion writer who worked for over 30 years, covering fashion trends and interviewing celebrities. She was known for her wit, her humor, and her ability to spot emerging trends.
What were some of Carrie Donovans most notable articles?
Carrie Donovan wrote many notable articles, including profiles of fashion icons such as Coco Chanel and Yves Saint Laurent. She also covered major fashion events, such as the Met Gala and Paris Fashion Week.
What awards did Carrie Donovan receive for her work?
Carrie Donovan received several awards for her work, including a Pulitzer Prize nomination for her fashion writing and a Council of Fashion Designers of America (CFDA) award for her contributions to the fashion industry.
What is Carrie Donovans legacy in the world of fashion?
Carrie Donovans legacy in the world of fashion is that of a talented and influential journalist who helped shape the industrys conversation about style and beauty. She will be remembered for her wit, her humor, and her contributions to the world of fashion.
What was Carrie Donovans most famous column?
Carrie Donovans most famous column was arguably her Ask Carrie column, in which she answered readers questions about fashion and beauty. The column was syndicated in newspapers across the country and became a beloved institution in the world of fashion.
