jolie laide

Undoubtedly this has something to do with the fact that a true taste for the piquant seduction of a jolie laide depends on a sophisticated erotic palate that is comfortable with husky, androgynous undertones.

The Unfairest of Them All (Published 2005) Daphne Merkin 2005

While not traditionally beautiful according to the Hollywood standards of yore, the American actress Brittany Murphy had "jolie laide" looks – big, brown eyes, a slightly disdainful mouth, a pointed chin, just-out-of-bed hair – which she used to great effect as she combined parts in ditzy comedies like Clueless and Just Married to meatier roles in the dark thrillers Girl, Interrupted and Don't Say A Word.

Brittany Murphy: Actress whose versatility matched her 'jolie laide' The Independent 2009

Such was the case recently when I was reminded of a French term I learned and thought I understood long ago: jolie laide. It technically translates to the clunky “pretty-ugly” but, in fact, is more about the elegance and maturity it takes to find beauty in the unique.

‘Jolie Laide’ and the Very French Art of Appreciating Imperfection 2025

While not traditionally beautiful according to the Hollywood standards of yore, the American actress Brittany Murphy had "jolie laide" looks – big, brown eyes, a slightly disdainful mouth, a pointed chin, just-out-of-bed hair – which she used to great effect as she combined parts in ditzy comedies like Clueless and Just Married to meatier roles in the dark thrillers Girl, Interrupted and Don't Say A Word.

Brittany Murphy: Actress whose versatility matched her 'jolie laide' The Independent 2009

Such was the case recently when I was reminded of a French term I learned and thought I understood long ago: jolie laide. It technically translates to the clunky “pretty-ugly” but, in fact, is more about the elegance and maturity it takes to find beauty in the unique.

‘Jolie Laide’ and the Very French Art of Appreciating Imperfection 2025

Undoubtedly this has something to do with the fact that a true taste for the piquant seduction of a jolie laide depends on a sophisticated erotic palate that is comfortable with husky, androgynous undertones.

The Unfairest of Them All (Published 2005) Daphne Merkin 2005