Quotes

I've lived by a man's code designed to fit a man's world, yet at the same time, I never forget that a woman's first job is to choose the right shade of lipstick.

[on why she would not work with Orson Welles] I can't win working with Welles. If the picture's a huge hit, he'll get the credit and, if it's a flop, I'll be blamed.

[William Powell] is the only intelligent actor I've ever met.

[on the concept of God] I don't seem to get solemn about it, and some people might not understand. That's why I never talk about it. I think it's all here--in the mountains and the desert. I don't think God is a softie, either. In the end, it's better if people are forced back into--well--into being right, before they're too far gone. I think your temple is your everyday living.

I think marriage is dangerous. The idea of two people trying to possess each other is wrong. I don't think the flare of love lasts. Your mind rather than your emotions must answer for the success of matrimony. It must be friendship -- a calm companionship which can last through the years.

I enjoy this country. I like the parks and the highways and the good schools and everything that this government does. After all, every cent anybody pays in taxes is spent to benefit him. I don't need $465,000 a year for myself, so why not give what I don't need to the government for improvements of the country. There's no better place to spend it.

I know it's a sweet deal, but the story stinks... I don't care if it is the studio's money, I don't like it.

An at-home costume or hostess gown is absolutely essential for the woman who entertains, and for two reasons. First, this type of costume is extremely flattering, and that does wonders for any woman's poise, and secondly, it eliminates the possibility of appearing overdressed in case a guest shows up in a simple daytime outfit. If a woman has a limited wardrobe, it would be wise to sacrifice a second dinner or evening frock for one hostess gown. She'll soon rate it the most valuable asset in her clothes collection.

[speaking at an Indianapolis war-bond rally, January 15, 1942] At first thought, we might say, "Our job is to win a war"... but I am sure it would be closer to the hearts of all of us to say, "We are fighting a war to assure peace... our kind of peace.".

[her last words to the public before leaving on a fund-raising flight for the war effort, January 15, 1942] Before I say goodbye to you all, come on - join me in a big cheer - "V for Victory!".

Personally, I resent being tagged "glamour girl". It's such an absurd, extravagant label. It implies so much that I'm not.

I can't imagine a duller fate than being the best-dressed woman in reality. When I want to do something, I don't pause to contemplate whether I'm exquisitely gowned. I want to live, not pose!

When it comes to your personal life, such as love and romance, girls should take a tip from the men and keep their affairs to themselves. Any man worth his salt regards his private life as his own. To kiss a girl and run and tell would mark him as a cad. Why doesn't that apply to girls also?

A woman has just as much right in this world as a man and can get along in it just as well if she puts her mind to it.