Published by: Ingrid King. Last Updated on: July 12, 2023 by Crystal Uys
I’m not fond of the term Crazy Cat Lady. It diminishes those of us who love cats for the unique and wonderful creatures that they are by assigning a label that usually has a derogatory connotation, even if it’s used with humorous self-deprecation. I’m not even all that comfortable with the term “cat lady,” because most people immediately add the “crazy” in front of it in their minds. However, the “cat lady” image is changing, with trailblazers such as the stylish Kate Benjamin of Hauspanther leading the way. A new book, Cat Lady Chic, also blows the image of the unfashionable, unkempt, frumpy cat lady out of the water.
The book features beautiful photos of cats paired with women of varied backgrounds, including style icons such as Audrey Hepburn, Georgia O’Keefe, Lauren Bacall, Marilyn Monroe, and Joan Jett, to name just a few.
Beautifully laid out in both black and white and full color, the book also features occasional quotes by some of the women pictured.
This book is a celebration of women who love cats, in all their beauty and variety. The combination of glamorous women and gorgeous cats makes this book a feast for the eyes, and it may just go a long way toward changing the way society views cat ladies.
Photo Credits: Audrey Hepburn and “Cat,” from the film Breakfast at Tiffany’s, 1961, Photograph by Howell Conant for Paramount, Paramount/Howell Conant/The Kobal Collection at Art Resource, NY. Brigitte Bardot with cats, 1956, Photographfest. Halle Berry and cat, from the film Catwoman, 2004, Warner Bros./DC Comics/The Kobal Collection at Art Resource, NY. All photos are used with permission.
About the author
Ingrid King is an award-winning author, former veterinary hospital manager, and veterinary journalist who is passionate about cats.
