Flavorwire

[Editor's note: Flavorwire is counting down our most popular features of 2010. This post comes in at position number 5. It was originally published October 12, 2010.] When it comes to writers’ fashion choices, most people know better than to judge a book by its cover. Although most authors are more closely associated with recluse-chic than aesthetic edge, there are those few who have become almost as recognizable for their stylistic sensibilities as for their literary skills. We’ve already explored the glamorous lives of fictional characters, but after the jump, check out ten great authors with equally distinctive personal styles.

Anaïs Nin

Even for a Parisian author of avant-garde novels and erotica, Anaïs Nin was absurdly chic. Her signature look — pencil-thin black eyebrows and dark lips against pale skin — gave her the appearance of a silent-film screen goddess. She played with the look by setting it against bohemian styles from gypsy lace headdresses to hippie tunics, thick dangling earrings to flowing madras dresses. Nin’s carefree look perfectly complemented her laidback lifestyle and confident, serene writing.