The fashion editor of Vogue from 1947 to 1972, Simpson was an invaluable source of memories from the time of mid-century fashion and culture. A lover of fashion, theatre, ballet and art, Simpson was a richly cultured, although very private figure.
Known for her light-hearted and inventive ways of passing time, she is remembered for often having a pet bird nestling in her hair. “I very often had a bird on my head, a live bird,” she recently said in a video interview with Vogue.
She would bring her needlework to studio sessions and photo shoots while also remaining in precise control of all the action. She took her role seriously and never underestimated the power of fashion or her position of leadership.
“Fashion is important because it revives one. I don’t think it’s just frivolous.”
Despite all the glitz of the fashion world in the 50s and 60s, Simpson remained unfazed by the excessive nature of her industry. “I never let the fashion world affect me.”
After more than 20 years at Vogue, Simpson moved to join House & Garden as editor, following other taste-making passions of hers: interior design and landscapes.
Always understated, when asked what she would want her legacy to be, Simpson replied “I wouldn’t want one.”
Babs Simpson was born 9 April, 1913 and died 7 January, 2019.