Mary Kate Olsen has always been known for her sense of style, but events of the past few years have somewhat overshadowed her flair for fashion. The 22-year-old actress and designer suffered from anorexia, and entered rehab just after her 18th birthday. More recently, Olsen has been caught up in the death of actor Heath Ledger, and will soon testify in front of a Grand Jury.

Although the more notorious of the Olsen twins, many also consider Mary-Kate the trend-setter She was the founder of the ‘boho-chic’ look, which saw many of us don huge sunnies, oversized sweaters and shabby boots in attempts to emulate Miss Olsen. She is often the first to showcase key fashion items, such as gladiator sandals and leather jackets. Designer Giambattista Valli has said, “Mary-Kate has an innate sense of style that follows no rules. Her personal style surpasses fashion.”

In studded leather jacket at Sonia Rykiel fashion show in Paris, 2008
http://offtherack.people.com

Wearing Chanel gladiator sandals before everyone else! (in 2008)
www.fashionising.com

In Los Angeles, July 2008
http://jezebel.com/5030990/mary-kate-olsen-grunge-meets-gladiator

Mary-Kate and Ashley have two fashion lines, the Row and Elizabeth and James. They have also designed a jewellery range for the Elizabeth and James line which features snake rings, cuffs and dagger necklaces.

Do you agree with Valli? Or do you think MK is fashion tragic than fashion magic?