Funny Hats on New Year’s Eve, 1970

I wish I had a funny hat and a collection of friends to celebrate New Year’s Eve.  Given my love of champagne, or similar bubbly beverages, it is a favorite holiday of mine.  At this party, sponsored by music mogul Berry Gordy, it looks like you could choose a hat to identify either with royalty or jesters. 

I’m ashamed to say that I had to look up Berry Gordy, the founder of Motown Records, when I came across a series of photos of his crowded party held in Los Angeles in 1970.  His entire family was part of his music empire.  In this photo to the right of the smashing Diana Ross is his sister, Esther Gordy, a big name is Motown music, and his mother, Bertha Gordy.

Diana Ross is wearing an elegant pantsuit, still fashion forward in 1970, and Esther Gordy might be in one as well.  However, Bertha Gordy decided on a long dress instead.  As far as I can tell, it is an unusual design featuring a black and white paisley underdress covered with a sheer magenta wrap.  Was the choke collar part of the dress?  Of her two hat options she chose a crown, well suited for the family matriarch.  At around age seventy two here, she looks radiant and ready to ring in the New Year.

A toast to all of you! The new year has to be better than the last one.

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2 Responses to Funny Hats on New Year’s Eve, 1970

  1. eimear says:

    happy new year Lynn – lovely photo and mix of styles, and such happy faces. Bet the play list was brilliant too.

  2. Lizzie says:

    I’m a bit late with the well-wishes. but I truly hope that this year we can all celebrate the beginning of a New Year!

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