Lately I've been absolutely obsessed with Phyllis Hyman. Growing up with her music through the 70's to the 90's, I was always aware that she was a consummate vocalist, but I recently realized her fashion sense was stunning as well. She was known for flamboyant outfits with large shoulder pads, low cut necklines and many kinds of hats. It is said that Queen Latifah borrowed some of her styles. Phyllis Linda Hyman was born on July 6, 1949 in Philadelphia, PA. (My birthday is July 9th, which led to my obsession with her life and career, along with some other commonalities.) Her musical career spanned decades and she was a member of various jazz and R&B groups, before she finally found her groove in a solo musical career. She also excelled as a songwriter and actress, with a leading role on Broadway, in "Sophisticated Ladies" a musical about the music of Duke Ellington, for which she received a Tony Award nomination, and she starred in several other movie roles. She never reached the level of stardom she so desperately wanted, however, although she was much more talented than many other top billed female singers of the time. Sadly, Phyllis Hyman took her own life the afternoon of June 30th, 1995, right before she was to perform at the Apollo theater that evening. Succumbing to a lethal drug overdose, she was 45 years old. Ms. Hyman was always said to have been extremely lonely, and self professed unlucky in love. She also suffered from bipolar disorder. Her suicide is said to have been a result of a combination of her mental disorder and drug and alcohol abuse, neither of which she was ever able to overcome. She left a musical legacy unsurpassed by most, and possessed one of the most beautiful alto tones I've ever heard. Let's take a look at some of the iconic looks this amazing lady showcased on her 6 foot 1 inch frame, and admire her incredible beauty, style and grace. ❤️ #icon #styleinspo #fashionblog #music #vintagefashion #70s #80s #90s #womenofcolor #womensupportingwomen #blackownedbusiness #womenshistorymonth #thewholeclosetboutique (at Delaware County, Pennsylvania) https://www.instagram.com/p/CMIPhM3AVFw/?igshid=sdl3b3zexr09