10 Iconic Elizabeth Taylor Quotes That’ll Make You Put on Some Lipstick and Channel Hollywood Glamour

Elizabeth Taylor was one of classic Hollywood’s most stunning stars. The actress, who started her career as a child and went on to win acclaim for films like A Place in the Sun, Cat on a Hot Tin Roof, Butterfield 8 and Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf? (to name just a few of her many classics) became a cultural icon of glamour and femininity.

Taylor was known for her larger than life persona, and drew much attention for her eight marriages and extravagantly dolled-up appearance. When she spoke, people hung on to her every word, hoping to channel even a fraction of her beauty and boldness.

When Taylor passed away in 2011 at age 79, the world mourned the loss of an unparalleled star, activist, businesswoman and all-around legend. Her films live on, as do her wise words. Here are 10 of our favorite Elizabeth Taylor quotes.

1. “Pour yourself a drink, put on some lipstick, and pull yourself together.”

Feeling down? Just follow Taylor’s simple and sassy instructions, and you’ll instantly find yourself in a better mood.

2. “Some of my best leading men have been dogs and horses.”

Taylor may have acted opposite some of the most handsome leading men of all time, but she clearly had a sense of humor about it.

3. “There’s no deodorant like success.”

Taylor saw firsthand how success can change the way people look at you — and this is true whether or not you’re a movie star.

4. “I don't entirely approve of some of the things I have done, or am, or have been. But I'm me. God knows, I'm me.”

The star wasn’t afraid to admit that she had some regrets, but ultimately recognized that they were all a crucial part of who she was.

5. “Big girls need big diamonds.”

This might not be the most relatable of Elizabeth Taylor quotes (how many of us can afford big diamonds, after all?), but it is one of the most characteristically over-the-top.

6. “The problem with people who have no vices is that generally you can be pretty sure they're going to have some pretty annoying virtues.”

Taylor had no patience for those with a holier than thou attitude.

7. “I’ve always been very aware of the inner me that has nothing to do with the physical me.”

The actress got philosophical with this potent reflection. While she was known for her beauty, she also recognized that her true self was distinct from her outward appearance.

8. “You cannot have passion of any kind unless you have compassion.”

Taylor was one of the first celebrities to get involved with AIDS activism, and this quote embodied her charitable spirit.

9. “You find out who your real friends are when you're involved in a scandal.”

While the star had her share of scandals, she took them in stride and appreciated those who stuck with her through all the highs and lows.

10. “I feel very adventurous. There are so many doors to be opened, and I'm not afraid to look behind them.”

This Elizabeth Taylor quote is filled with optimism, and serves as a reminder to pursue your dreams and always be eager for the next opportunity.

Read on for more inspiring quotes!

6 Audrey Hepburn Quotes That Prove She Remains a Timeless Hollywood Icon

Tom Cruise Has Been Candid About His Life and Career! See His Best Quotes and Messages

Phil Donahue's Inspiring Quotes: 4 Moving Messages From the Late Host