Rue McClanahan Style Evolution: The Golden Girl Of Fashion Loved Feathered Hair And Poofy Sleeves (PHOTOS)

When she wasn't busy filming the hit TV series "The Golden Girls," gabbing with her BFF Betty White, or winning Emmy awards, Rue McClanahan was just your average girl (well, sort of). The actress, who got her start in Off Broadway shows, was known for her charismatic spirit and love of animals (in fact, her motto was "cruelty is one fashion statement we can all do without.") McClanahan punctuated a long, respected career in Hollywood by working with industry heavy hitters like Dustin Hoffman.

The Oklahoma native may have been known for her roles on the small screen, but her personal style was also worth noting. When she wasn't dripping in gorgeous jewelry or sporting a fringed poncho, she was decked out in brightly colored power suits. Her hair was always perfectly feathered, and she never ceased to surprise on the red carpet.

Although it has been almost three years since her death, to celebrate what would have been her 79th birthday (on Feb. 21) we are taking a look back at some of McClanahan's best fashion moments -- between the polka-dot suits and poofy sleeves, there was never a dull moment.

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