Serving as President of Rainwater, Inc., Ms. Moore has been labeled FORTUNE's "Toughest Babe in Business". The billionaire's latest crusade is reforming the finances of South Carolina, her home state. The Darla Moore School of Business on the USC-Columbia campus stands as a testament to her hard work and determination to exceed in the "boys only" world of finance. Ms. Moore has excelled in the financial world through extremely hard work. She continued to climb the financial ladder of success, much to the consternation of the males around her. She not only displayed the quiet charm that is attributed to most Southern ladies, but she also possessed an intensely wide competitive streak.
As quoted from Fortune Magainze, "To get a picture of Darla Moore, imagine, say, a cross between the Terminator and Kim Basinger, with a wicked South Carolina drawl. Upon first meeting, she can come across as a prima donna, tough and aloof. As she warms up she can turn fun and flirty, even girlish, though the shift is deceptive. 'She's a cutthroat killer underneath,' says her friend Martha Stewart, with admiration." Such a statement from Martha Stewart draws a rather comical mental picture. But, does that type of statement say Ms. Moore is a head-strong woman, or a barbie doll with an attitude? For that matter, does the label "barbie doll" even fit her? More importantly, has Ms. Moore been labeled according to society's impression of her?
Ms. Moore seemingly went to great lengths to project an image: an image that speaks of wealth, sophistication, style. Her portraiture is professional and polished. She has an air of sophistication, displaying the classic style of dress. The lighting chosen is flattering, and there is no mistaking the steady look in her eyes. Ms. Moore's image is in direct contrast to the other images we have chosen. Her photograph is feminine, stylish and professional. The photograph neither displays an overabundance of emotion, nor does it lack the warmth that is usually displayed in a family photo album. It is the quintessential portrait of a woman: not too soft, nor is it too rigid. The picture reminds the viewer of a woman from the 1950s, which is in stark contrast to Ms. Moore's reputation as a "cut-throat businesswoman". The photograph's irony is not lost on the viewer.
Author: Jilda Leigh Sharp
Last updated: October 7, 2000