The Barbizon: The New York Hotel That Set Women Free

The Barbizon was a women-only hotel in New York City from 1927 to 1968, where ambitious and independent women, such as Sylvia Plath, Joan Crawford, and Grace Kelly, stayed. It was a place of glamour and opportunity, where women could pursue their careers and find success. The hotel also housed many famous writers and artists.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 336 pages
Publication date: 03 February 2022
Publisher: John Murray Press

Captivating . . . a brilliant many-layered social history of women 's ambition and a rapidly changing New York Observer A fascinating look at a piece of forgotten female history Sunday Times A treat, elegantly spinning a forgotten story of female liberation, ambition, and self-invention Guardian A deeply researched history, leavened with gossip . . . offers a full sweep of the changing status of American women in the twentieth century TLS Welcome to the Barbizon, New York s premier women-only hotel Built in 1927 as a home for the Modern Woman seeking a career in the arts, the Barbizon became the place to stay for ambitious, independent women, who were lured by the promise of fame and good fortune. Sylvia Plath fictionalized her time there in The Bell Jar, and over the years, its 688 tiny floral, highly feminine boudoirs also housed Joan Crawford, Grace Kelly (notorious for sneaking in men), Joan Didion, Candice Bergen, Charlie s Angel Jaclyn Smith, Ali MacGraw, Cybil Shepherd, Elaine Stritch, Liza Minnelli, Eudora Welty, The Cosby Show s Phylicia Rashad, Grey Gardens s Edith Bouvier Beale, and writers Mona Simpson and Ann Beattie, among many others. Mademoiselle boarded its summer interns there - perfectly turned-out young women, who would never be spotted hatless - as did Katherine Gibbs Secretarial School its students - in their white-gloves and kitten heels - and the Ford Modelling Agency its young models.

The Barbizon: A Tale of Women's Ambition and Self-Invention

The Barbizon, a historic hotel in New York City, holds a captivating place in the annals of women's history. Built in 1927 as a haven for the Modern Woman seeking a career in the arts, it quickly became a hub for ambitious and independent women, drawn by the allure of fame and fortune. This many-layered social history delves into the lives of these remarkable women, spanning from the Jazz Age New Women of the 1920s to the Liberated Women of the 1960s.

The Barbizon's story is a testament to the indomitable spirit of women who defied societal expectations and pursued their dreams. It was a place where women could be themselves, free from the constraints of traditional gender roles. The hotel's 688 tiny floral boudoirs, each adorned with feminine touches, became a symbol of female empowerment and self-invention.

Over the years, the Barbizon became a melting pot of talent and creativity. It housed renowned figures such as Joan Crawford, Grace Kelly, Joan Didion, Candice Bergen, Charlie's Angel Jaclyn Smith, Ali MacGraw, Cybil Shepherd, Elaine Stritch, Liza Minnelli, Eudora Welty, and many others. These women, known for their ambition and talent, left their mark on the world and paved the way for future generations of women.

The Barbizon's influence extended beyond its walls. It became a place of learning and mentorship, where young women from various backgrounds could gain valuable skills and knowledge. Mademoiselle, a renowned fashion magazine, boarded its summer interns there, ensuring that they were perfectly turned-out and poised for success. Katherine Gibbs Secretarial School and the Ford Modelling Agency also sent their students to the Barbizon, fostering a sense of professionalism and refinement.

The Barbizon's legacy continues to inspire and empower women today. It serves as a reminder of the power of female ambition and the importance of supporting and uplifting one another. The hotel's vibrant history, filled with gossip and scandal, adds an intriguing layer to its allure, making it a must-visit destination for anyone interested in the rich tapestry of women's history.

In conclusion, the Barbizon Hotel stands as a shining example of women's ambition and self-invention. It symbolizes the courage and determination of women who sought a life beyond societal norms and paved the way for future generations. The hotel's colorful history, filled with glamour and talent, continues to captivate and inspire us, reminding us of the power of female empowerment and the importance of pursuing our dreams.

Weight: 238g
Dimension: 129 x 197 x 27 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781529393040