Jennifer Tilly, a renowned figure in both acting and professional poker, recently offered insights into her distinctive personal style and collecting habits during an appearance on 'The Good Buy' podcast. Known for her maximalist aesthetic and a penchant for unique acquisitions, Tilly discussed how she curates her wardrobe for various public personas, from reality television to high-stakes poker tables, always with an eye for dramatic flair. Her conversation also unveiled fascinating stories behind her treasured possessions, including an encounter with Elizabeth Taylor during an auction, and her overall philosophy on acquiring items that resonate deeply with her.

Tilly, an Oscar-nominated actress celebrated for her roles in the 'Chucky' franchise, 'Bound,' and 'Liar Liar,' alongside her current presence on 'The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills,' presented herself as a serious collector with an impressive array of one-of-a-kind jewelry. This includes a charm bracelet once owned by Joan Crawford and a brooch gifted by Eddie Fisher to Elizabeth Taylor. During her podcast interview, she elaborated on her sartorial choices for different platforms. For 'Housewives,' she approaches dressing as a theatrical endeavor, favoring exaggerated, fun outfits like a red-and-white striped caftan with matching accessories, believing that excess enhances the visual appeal. This contrasts with her more understated attire during poker tournaments when cameras are absent, where she adopts a serious player persona in casual wear. However, when televised for shows like 'High Stakes Poker,' she transforms into 'Lady Gambler,' embracing a glamorous look with ample cleavage, bold makeup, and shimmering diamonds to create a dazzling spectacle.

A particularly captivating moment in Tilly's collecting journey involved a Bulgari ruby necklace auctioned from Elizabeth Taylor's collection. Tilly recounted being advised she might be bidding against Taylor herself, only to find Taylor distracted by Elton John during the auction. This serendipitous moment allowed Tilly to acquire the piece for what she considered a steal, though she later learned Taylor was dismayed at missing it due to the distraction. This anecdote highlights Tilly's knack for acquiring significant pieces and her appreciation for their history. Her shopping philosophy, while acknowledging a tendency towards being a 'shopaholic,' prioritizes investment in pieces that bring long-term satisfaction. She finds joy in both avant-garde designs, like those by Alessandro Michele, and timeless classics such as a simple black dress from The Row, which she values for its enduring elegance and versatility.

Tilly also reminisced about her very first significant fashion purchase: two Chanel necklaces with prominent 'C' logos, inspired by a French Vogue feature. Conversely, her 'regret buy' was a dramatic, floor-length Gucci coat from a runway show, suggesting a minor misstep in her otherwise curated collection. Her ultimate 'dream buy' remains the legendary Taj Mahal diamond, formerly owned by Elizabeth Taylor, which Tilly admires for its inherent energy and unique aesthetic, despite its unattainable price. Her most recent meaningful acquisition was a distinctive ghost ship-inspired hat from Gaultier, celebrating her love for hats and viewing them as another canvas for personal adornment. Tilly's perspective on fashion and collecting is deeply personal, driven by stories, character, and an unwavering commitment to pieces that reflect her vibrant individuality and bring her joy.