Throughout her lengthy career, Raquel Welch was renowned for her sex appeal and moments of jaw-dropping fashion. She passed away on February 15 after a brief illness.
Welch notably admitted that her character was not who she had meant to be despite being held to this notion.
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She explained to the Daily Mail in 2001 that she was raised in a conventional household and that her family was highly religious.
“I was not brought up to be a sex symbol, nor is it in my nature to be one. The fact that I became one is probably the loveliest, most glamorous, and fortunate misunderstanding,” she explained.
Welch’s dress choices, however, helped her become well-known and cemented her status as a fashion and sex icon.
Let’s look at some of her most recognizable fashion statements from throughout her career.
The ‘One Million Years B.C.’ Bikini
It’s possible that the deerskin bikini that Welch’s character wore in the 1967 film One Million Years B.C. is her most well-known garment throughout her career. She got a total of three lines in the movie, but her choice of clothing would ultimately cement her reputation as a sex icon and make it one of the most recognizable acting parts she ever played.
Rachel Welsh passed today. Such a beauty in her hayday.
This is from One Million Years BC.#RachelWelsh pic.twitter.com/yP1aKh70Pe
— Timothy J. O'Connor (@iHomeTech) February 15, 2023
Welch and Cher
Welch performed on “The Cher Show” in 1975, showcasing her figure and vocal abilities. The two Hollywood luminaries wore matching sparkling ensembles created by Bob Mackie.
Raquel Welch and Cher. Goddamn. pic.twitter.com/4UNe1bxhMz
— Super 70s Sports (@Super70sSports) February 15, 2023
The pair’s gorgeous matching ensembles completely stole the show as they sang Peggy Lee’s “I’m a Woman” for the crowd. The pair had previously performed together, but in less ostentatious attire and with a tune that required less vocal prowess.
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Myra Beckinridge
Welch played the classic character of “Myra Breckinridge” in the 1970s comedy. On Rotten Tomatoes, the movie now has a 27% approval rating and is regarded as one of the worst movies ever created.
Comme Constance Bonacieux aussi ( Trois mousquetaires). Et en tant que Myra Beckinridge. pic.twitter.com/WPRGFbCqD9
— Spirale Zone (@SpiraleZone1) February 15, 2023
Welch’s patriotic bikini outfit, which is depicted on the movie’s theatrical release poster, is thought to be one of her most recognisable looks despite the film’s weak premise.
One of Welch’s more recognisable looks may have been made even more famous by the controversies surrounding the movie. Welch herself admits that she isn’t really fond of the film.
Welch referred to the movie in a 2012 interview with editor Mark Peikert by saying, “the only thing good about that was the clothes.”