Emotional reason Diane Keaton always chose to cover her neck and head
An unconventional fashion choice Diane Keaton repeatedly made during her career has come to light this week, following the heartbreaking news of the actress' passing.
Keaton - famed for her roles in The Godfather, The First Wives Club and Woody Allen's Annie Hall - died on Saturday (11 October) at the age of 79.
Her loved ones confirmed her death in a statement given to People, which read: "There are no further details available at this time, and her family has asked for privacy in this moment of great sadness."
In the days since the sad announcement hit international headlines, fans of the mother-of-two have been reflecting on Keaton's biggest contributions to film, which spanned over a staggering five decades.
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On top of these major achievements, however, Keaton was also recognised as something of a fashion icon, best known for her menswear-inspired style, which often consisted of wide-legged trousers, button-down shirts, vests and blazers.
She previously credited her mother as her main wardrobe inspo, believing that a look must comprise of 'a turtleneck, suit, large belt, and of course, a hat and glasses'.
On countless red carpet occasions, she often paired her sophisticated get-ups with effortlessly chic ties, scarves and hats. Apparently, however, these accessories were more than just a haute-couture coincidence - or a bid to keep the movie star warm.
In fact, by Keaton's own admission, she often covered her head and neck in public for another, more gut-wrenching reason.
"It’s very protective," she told InStyle of her eye for fashion back in 2019. "It hides a multitude of sins. Flaws, anxiety - things like that."
She added: "And I’ve always liked hats. They just frame a head. But, of course, nobody really thinks they’re as great as I do."
Keaton went on to recount having 'so many skin cancers' during her life - including basal-cell carcinoma and squamous cell cancer - and that she hoped her choice of accessories would help shield her from the Sun.
Recalling her endurance with the diseases - the latter of which saw her needing two surgeries - she previously issued advice in conversation with Total Beauty, adding: "Wear sunscreen. You’ve got to put it on.
"And I had it for a very, very long time [before it was diagnosed]. I knew something was up, but no one could find it. I had three biopsies before they found it. And it was deep."
Keaton explained at the time: "A squamous cell cancer is second to melanoma, and you can die from it because it will spread. It’s really not a joke."
She also revealed to the LA Times that the disease ran somewhat in her family, saying: "I remember my Auntie Martha had skin cancer so bad they removed her nose. My father had basal skin cancer, and my brother had it.
"You’ve got to put the sunblock on, you’ve got to go to the dermatologist, you have to take care of yourself and pay attention."
Rhianna Benson