Did Babe Paley Have Plastic Surgery? Who Was Babe Paley?
by M Nishali
Updated Feb 07, 2024
Did Babe Paley Have Plastic Surgery?
Yes, Babe Paley did undergo 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.
Furthermore, Babe's decision to undergo plastic surgery highlights the societal pressures faced by women, particularly those in affluent circles, to adhere to certain beauty standards. In the world of high society, where appearance is often closely scrutinized and valued, individuals may feel compelled to undergo cosmetic procedures to meet the expectations placed upon them.
While the specifics of Babe Paley's plastic surgery may not be extensively documented, it is clear that she underwent the procedure to address injuries sustained in the car accident and to maintain her appearance within the demanding social circles of New York's elite.
Who Was Babe Paley?
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.
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 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.
Throughout her career, Babe Paley's influence extended beyond her work in fashion. Her distinctive style and social status made her a trendsetter and an icon of elegance. She and her husband maintained residences in prestigious locations such as the St. Regis in New York City and an estate in Manhasset, Long Island. Their social circle included notable figures like author Truman Capote and socialite Slim Keith.
Despite leaving her career at Vogue, Babe continued to make waves in high society with her unique fashion sense and glamorous lifestyle. Her impact on fashion and society remains significant, and she is remembered as a symbol of sophistication and refinement in American culture.
When Did Babe Paley Pass Away?
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's passing marked the end of an era, but her legacy as a fashion icon and socialite continues to endure. Her impeccable sense of style and grace left a lasting impression on the world of fashion, and her influence is still felt today. Despite facing challenges and hardships in her final years, Babe Paley's strength and elegance remain an inspiration to many.
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Babe Paley 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.
In 1947, Babe's life took another turn when she married William S. Paley, co-founder of CBS. The couple became prominent figures in high society, leading a lavish lifestyle in New York City and owning estates in Long Island and New Hampshire. However, despite their outward appearance of happiness, Truman Capote's expose, "La Côte Basque 1965," revealed the complexities within their marriage, including William's infidelities.
Despite facing personal challenges and setbacks, Babe Paley continued to exert influence over New York society throughout the 1970s. She was renowned for her impeccable taste and elegance, earning a place on Time's best-dressed list an impressive 14 times.
Did Babe Paley Have Plastic Surgery - FAQs
Yes, Babe Paley did undergo plastic surgery after a car accident in 1934.
Babe Paley passed away on July 6, 1978, one day after her 63rd birthday.
Babe Paley began her career as a fashion editor at Vogue magazine in 1938.
Babe Paley was married first to Stanley G. Mortimer Jr. and later to William S. Paley, co-founder of CBS.
Babe Paley left behind a legacy as a fashion icon and socialite, known for her impeccable style and elegance.