Cameron Diaz’s Denim & Silk Marie Claire Shoot (2009)

The exhibit begins with the quintessential uniform of the period: the Canadian tuxedo. Diaz wears a perfectly worn-in denim shirt over a simple tank, paired with distressed jeans. But the magic, as was always the case in ’09, was in the accessorizing. A waterfall of layered silver necklaces fills the neckline, turning a simple outfit into a statement. It’s a look that radiates an easy, sun-drenched confidence.

A uniform.

From there, the editorial explored every facet of her style persona. One moment she’s the picture of nautical chic in a classic Breton stripe top and crisp white trousers, the look anchored by another tangle of chains and a pair of killer architectural heels. Then, she demonstrates the ultimate high-low style hack, throwing a structured cream coat over distressed denim and a tee. It’s a move that says, “I understand luxury, but I don’t let it wear me.”

Then, the mood shifts. The casual cool recedes, replaced by pure movie-star glamour. Diaz appears in a breathtaking sapphire-blue dress, its silk fabric expertly draped and twisted across the body, cinched by a bold black waistband. It’s a reminder of her formidable red-carpet presence, a flash of the siren behind the girl-next-door smile. The effortless beach waves remain, but the context is transformed from Venice Beach to a movie premiere.