Stanis often opted for earthy tones—terracotta lips and soft brown eyeshadow—that enhanced her features without overshadowing her natural radiance. Why Her Style Still Matters Today
Stanis was a frequent Jet "Beauty of the Week" and cover star. These photoshoots utilized saturated color backdrops—vibrant yellows, deep reds, and electric blues—that complemented her radiant complexion and highlighted the bold color blocking of 1970s apparel. The Dramatic Headwrap Sessions
: A powerful symbol of Black pride and the "Black is Beautiful" movement.
, she often layered leotards under ballet skirts, a style that predated later fitness-fashion trends like Flashdance Signature Pieces
Bernadette Stanis proved that fashion is a powerful tool for cultural visibility. Her style gallery is not just a collection of pretty pictures; it is a historical record of a woman who stepped into the spotlight, took control of her image, and left an indelible mark on American style.
When we talk about the ultimate icons of 1970s television, the conversation invariably leads to Brooklyn, New York native BernNadette Stanis . Best known for her groundbreaking role as Thelma Evans-Anderson on the CBS sitcom Good Times , Stanis was more than just the talented daughter of Florida and James Evans. She was a cultural zeitgeist, a fashion trailblazer, and a definitive sex symbol of her era.
: Stanis frequently wore high-waisted, form-fitting denim jeans and jumpsuits that highlighted her dancer's physique, making casual wear look effortlessly chic.
One particular archival photoshoot for CBS features Stanis leaning against a sun-drenched brick wall in Chicago. She wears a chocolate-brown suede jacket over a cream silk shirt, with a single gold coin pendant resting on her collarbone. The lighting is soft, the pose is relaxed, but the message is clear: Black girl luxury was here.
BernNadette Stanis’s impact on fashion is not just about the clothes she wore, but the confidence with which she wore them. She proved that style is timeless, combining the trendy aesthetics of the 70s with a lasting, graceful elegance.
For high-quality vintage imagery and fan-curated style boards, community platforms are your best friend. Browsers can explore specialized collections like the Pinterest 19 BERNADETTE STANIS Board or the Pinterest Thelma from Good Times Ideas for a deep dive into her 70s fashion footprint. 2. Recreate the Looks
As an actress, author of four books (including Situations 101 and The Last Night ), and advocate for women's wellness, Stanis has gracefully stepped into her status as television royalty. In recent years, red carpet appearances and curated modern photoshoots prove she hasn’t lost her touch. Her current style is defined by timeless elegance—featuring sleek lines, monochromatic looks, and sophisticated silhouettes that pay homage to her vintage roots while embracing modern luxury. How to Curate Your Own BernNadette Stanis Style Gallery