"I never go outside unless I look like Joan Crawford the movie star. If you want to see the girl next door, go next door"

The quote by Joan Crawford shows a deep understanding of individual branding, self-presentation, and the expectations of fame. Joan Crawford, a famous figure in Hollywood, was known for her strong screen presence and glamorous image, both on and off the screen. This quote encapsulates her commitment to maintaining that image at all times.

Firstly, the phrase "I never ever go outside unless I appear like Joan Crawford the film star" recommends a conscious effort to craft and preserve a personality that embodies the glamour and allure related to her celeb status. In the golden era of Hollywood, a star's public look was carefully curated, and Crawford was acutely aware of the effect that her look had on her profession and public understanding. By sticking to this discipline, she made sure that her image as a film star corresponded, reinforcing her brand name and distinction in the competitive world of entertainment.

Furthermore, the 2nd part of the quote, "If you wish to see the lady next door, go next door", reinforces her dedication to being remarkable and unique from common life. It reveals her awareness of her unique role and status in the eyes of the public. Joan Crawford wasn't interested in embodying the simpleness or relatability of the "woman next door" archetype; rather, she sought to provide something more aspirational and far-off from daily life. This demonstrates her understanding that the attraction of fame lies partly in its inaccessibility and the capability to offer audiences an escape from their everyday reality.

By asserting this distinction, Crawford highlights the notion that being a film star involves constructing an image that is larger than life. Her words show a deliberate and strategic approach to celeb, where individual and professional borders are intertwined, and self-presentation is constantly handled. In essence, Joan Crawford's quote is a testament to her understanding of the power of image and perception in the realm of Hollywood.