Why You Should Judge a Book by Its Cover: The 9 Stylish Poets Inspiring Our Summer Style Inline
Photo: Getty Images1/9Name: Dorothy Parker
Lived: 1893–1967
Most famous for: Her poems, as well as deeply witty and satirical commentary; friendship with Lost Generation writers Ernest Hemingway and F. Scott Fitzgerald; screenwriting career that earned her two Oscar nominations.
The look: Flawless coordination of raven-colored nails, hair in a classic chignon, lips, and understated silhouette; single strand of pearls adding an Old World polished touch; gripping poise.
Photo: Getty Images2/9Name: Allen Ginsberg
Lived: 1926–1997
Most famous for: Heralding the Beat movement based in the bohemian Greenwich Village; championing free speech in defense of his controversial poems; friendship with Bob Dylan.
The look: Comfortable fabrics; artfully shaped lenses; political statement neckwear; unruly beard that would fit in perfectly in present-day Brooklyn.
Photo: Rex USA3/9Name: Sylvia Plath
Lived: 1932–1963
Most famous for: Brazen, confessional poetry; The Bell Jar, a breakthrough semi-autobiographical novel; torrid love affair with and marriage to fellow poet, Ted Hughes; untimely end.
The look: Simple aristocratic allure and grooming; diligent attention to fine accessories like an equestrian belt; well-tailored New England basics.
Photo: Getty Images4/9Name: Maya Angelou
Lived: 1928–2014
Most famous for: Her patently inspirational and life-affirming poetry; seven autobiographies, most famously I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings; prominent activity in the Civil Rights Movement, including work with Martin Luther King, Jr.; recitation at **Bill Clinton’**s presidential inauguration in 1993.
The look: Her signature colorful and electric patterned scarves tied around her head; elegant gold jewelry.
Photo: Getty Images5/9Name: Gil Scott-Heron
Lived: 1949–2011
Most famous for: Being inspired by the Harlem Renaissance, playing jazz and soul music, prolifically writing poetry, and performing spoken words; heavily influencing the hip-hop generation, especially his often-sampled poem, “The Revolution Will Not Be Televised.”
The look: Undeniable swagger; his classic seventies pea coat and bucket hat, both of which would easily be lusted after by today’s street style stars; cozy cream scarf for practicality (and, maybe, a bit of delicateness).
