Maureen Dowd, the renowned columnist for The New York Times, has recently shared a heartwarming and humorous anecdote about her friendship with the late Andre Leon Talley, the iconic former creative director of Vogue and a judge on America’s Next Top Model. During a recent event at the 92nd Street Y in New York City, Dowd reflected on the time Talley came to her aid—literally and figuratively—when he fell ill with the flu in Washington, D.C., back in 2012. Talley, known for his larger-than-life personality and sharp wit, ended up staying with Dowd for a week while he recovered. What began as an act of kindness quickly turned into an unexpected fashion intervention, as Talley took it upon himself to critique Dowd’s wardrobe and insist on improving her style. “He started yelling at me that my closets were messy and that I couldn’t go out in wrinkled clothes,” Dowd recalled with a chuckle during her conversation with actress and interviewer Christine Baranski. She even mimicked Talley’s commanding tone, saying, “He’d say, ‘Come back here and iron that!’” Despite his bossy demeanor, Dowd described Talley as “the coolest, most fun person,” whose presence brought immense joy and laughter into her life.
The story of Talley’s week-long stay with Dowd is just one of many fascinating anecdotes featured in her new book, Notorious: Portraits of Stars from Hollywood, Culture, Fashion, and Tech. The book is a collection of Dowd’s conversations with some of the most influential figures of our time, including Uma Thurman, Tina Fey, Larry David, Elon Musk, Bob Iger, Tom Ford, and, of course, Andre Leon Talley. Dowd’s reflections on her friendship with Talley highlight his duality as both a demanding perfectionist and a deeply engaging companion. By the end of his stay, the two were lounging in bed together, watching old French films and critiquing the fashion choices of iconic actresses like Jeanne Moreau and Catherine Deneuve. “It was really one of the best times I’ve ever had,” Dowd admitted, her voice filled with warmth and nostalgia. These moments with Talley not only showcased his extensive knowledge of fashion and culture but also his ability to connect with others on a personal and intellectual level.
Andre Leon Talley’s life was a testament to his boundless passion for fashion, art, and literature. He began his career at Vogue in 1983 and quickly rose through the ranks, becoming one of the most influential voices in the industry. His expertise extended far beyond the realm of fashion; he held an advanced degree in French literature and was as comfortable discussing the works of Jean-Paul Sartre as he was critiquing the latest runway trends. Talley’s death in January 2022 at the age of 73 (due to complications from COVID-19) was met with an outpouring of tributes from the fashion and cultural worlds. His funeral was attended by a veritable who’s who of A-listers, including Anna Wintour, Naomi Campbell, Marc Jacobs, Karlie Kloss, Martha Stewart, and Diane von Furstenberg, among many others. The turnout was a testament to the profound impact Talley had on so many lives and careers.
Dowd’s recollections of Talley are not just a celebration of his larger-than-life personality but also a reminder of the ways in which he inspired those around him. His stay at her home, though initially unplanned, became a defining moment in their friendship, blending humor, camaraderie, and a healthy dose of fashion advice. Talley’s insistence on ironing her clothes and organizing her closet may seem trivial on the surface, but it speaks to his dedication to excellence and his belief that every detail mattered. Dowd’s ability to laugh at these moments and share them with the world underscores the warmth and admiration she felt for him. Their dynamic—part Xerox of witty banter, part lesson in style and culture—illustrates the unique bond they shared.
Talley’s influence extended far beyond Dowd’s closet. As a Black man in a predominantly white and exclusive industry, he broke barriers and paved the way for greater diversity in fashion. His contributions to Vogue and his appearances on America’s Next Top Model introduced him to a broader audience, but his legacy lies in the way he challenged norms and championed underrepresented voices. Talley’s story is one of resilience, talent, and an unwavering commitment to his passions. Dowd’s book, and her reflections on their friendship, serve as a fitting tribute to his enduring legacy, reminding us of the power of personality and the impact one person can have on the lives of others.
In the end, Maureen Dowd’s story about Andre Leon Talley is not just about fashion or celebrity; it’s about the interconnectedness of lives and the ways in which people can inspire, challenge, and uplift one another. Talley’s time with Dowd was brief, but the memories they created—and the lessons she learned from him—have stayed with her long after he left. His passing leaves a void in the cultural landscape, but his influence lives on through the countless lives he touched, including Dowd’s. As she continues to share his story through her book and public appearances, she ensures that his spirit of creativity, wit, and inclusivity will enduringly resonate with future generations.
