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Diane Kruger Style Deconstructed

We’ve been wowed by Diane Kruger style for nearly two decades. Bring more elegance and grace into your own wardrobe with this intro to Kruger and her fabulous fashion choices.

Who is Diane Kruger?

Kruger is a German actress and model who made a name for herself in Hollywood in the early 2000s. She has graced the big screen in several roles, captivating audiences with her undeniable talent and stunning beauty.

Kruger’s breakout role was Helen of Troy in the 2004 epic film Troy, starring alongside Brad Pitt. Since then, she’s appeared in many other high-profile films, including Quentin Tarantino’s Inglourious Basterds and the Nicolas Cage caper National Treasure. Fast forward to 2023 and Kruger is about to start filming David Cronenburg’s next film, The Shrouds, with Guy Pierce.

Kruger has also been a successful model, having worked with many high-end fashion brands, including Chanel and L’Oréal Paris.

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Kruger’s talent and success in acting and modeling have earned her several accolades and awards, including a Screen Actors Guild Award and a Cannes Film Festival Award.

Beyond her impressive resume, Kruger is also known for her poise, charm, and down-to-earth personality. She’s a true style icon and role model for women around the world.

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Diane Kruger style

Back in 2011, we had this to say about Kruger’s mind-blowingly fabulous style: Diane’s style is very French, and we’re not just referring to her affinity for Chanel. The star goes for chic, crisp, tailored clothes, minimal (often messy) hair and makeup styling, with the little white dress serving as her go-to outfit. We also documented these six Kruger style notes:

  1. She doesn’t follow the trends.
  2. She doesn’t show too much skin.
  3. In the daytime, she likes simple, accessorized boldly.
  4. At night, she likes bold, accessorized simply.
  5. Embrace the short hemline.
  6. She likes to match her man (who, at that time, was boyfriend Joshua Jackson).

Do those Kruger style rules still apply in 2023? Let’s take a look.

1. Forget the trends

This style rule still applies for Kruger, yes? Kruger doesn’t dress for trends — she dresses for herself. To capture this element of her style, start by letting go of the “in,” “it,” and “hot” looks. Instead, see things from Kruger’s perspective. Read that to mean: If hardly anyone else is wearing it, that’s a good thing.

Above, Kruger dons a sheer, wide-legged pant, sparkly crop, and masculine blazer. It’s a fantastically unique ensemble that she pulls off with style and grace.

2. Don’t show too much skin

The topless selfie above practically broke the internet when Kruger posted it in March. Why? Because it’s unusual. Kruger is not one to flash her bits and parts on a regular basis.

Kruger may swoon for high slits and hemlines, but she’s less likely to appear on the red carpet in a plunging neckline or midriff-baring dress. Diane knows how to flaunt her body without actually showing it. With clothes that are fitted to your figure, you can do the same.

3. By day, dress simply and accessorize boldly

Back in the day, one of Kruger’s signature looks was the little white dress, accessorized with a bold clutch or embellished heels. Today, she’s more fluid in her daytime looks. Even so, you can still see the thread of simple paired with bold throughout her IG feed. Above, she pairs a pretty white top with wide-brimmed hat with long black band and chunky gold hoops. Perfection! And below, Kruger uses a hat and statement watch to dress up denim and a long-sleeved black top.

The takeaway for you? Have fun with hats, belts, bags, or earrings, even on the days you’re wearing jeans and a tee.

4. By night, dress boldly and accessorize simply

Yes, by day, Kruger likes to keep things simple. But by night, she doesn’t hold back. That’s another key theme of Diane Kruger style. It’s not thigh-high slits or super-tight skirts that set her apart from other stars. It’s the unique textures, colors, and silhouettes she chooses. Often, her nighttime looks stand on their own — so there’s no need for heavy accessorizing.

If you’re shopping for occasion dresses, look for interesting or intricate details. And leave your statement jewelry at home.

5. Embrace short hemlines

When you’re shopping, do you ever pick up a garment off the rack and wonder whether it’s a shirt or a dress? Kruger doesn’t. While she has modesty on her mind, there’s one sexy, skin-baring rule she loves: If it covers her butt, it’s a dress.

Kruger loves short hemlines, and in spite of showing off all that leg, she looks classy in them. Why? Because she doesn’t pair short with tight or short with a plunging neckline. If you want to follow her lead and show some leg, go for it — but make sure that’s all you’re showing.

5. Match your man

So…in 2011, we noted the matchiness of Kruger with former boyfriend Joshua Jackson. And now, a decade later, we find this gem of a photo in Kruger’s feed. This is Kruger with her fiance, Norman Reedus. Aren’t they the cutest? And they match!

While I’m not suggesting you and your man step out in matching sweaters or even in the same color, I think the two of you can make double the fashion statement if you incorporate a tiny bit of matchiness. Try complementary colors or similar accessories. If your guy resists, start him off with a cool pair of sunglasses (that look kinda like yours, of course).

As it turns out, Kruger is consistent. The Diane Kruger style themes we pointed out in 2011 still apply today — which goes to show she’s a true style leader, not a follower.