Audrey Hepburn’s style is synonymous with timeless elegance and impeccable taste. From her film roles to her personal wardrobe, Hepburn’s fashion choices have left an indelible mark on the fashion world. Here’s a look at the iconic items that defined her unforgettable style.
10 Items That Defined Audrey Hepburn’s Style
1. The Hairband
The hairband, often seen as a simple accessory, became a staple in Audrey Hepburn’s style repertoire. She wore it with a sense of ease and sophistication, whether it was a neatly bow-topped alice band or a plain white strip of fabric keeping her hair off her face during ballet practice. The hairband’s revival in recent years owes much to Hepburn’s influence, with designers like Prada and Fendi incorporating this timeless piece into their collections.
2. The Waist Belt
In “Roman Holiday” (1953), Hepburn’s portrayal of a princess on a Roman adventure was captivating and a defining moment for her style. Her waist belt in the film became an iconic element, cinching her blouse and voluminous skirt to create a youthful and elegant silhouette. The rolled-up sleeves and striped neck scarf added to the effortless charm of this look, making it one of the most memorable in fashion history.
3. The Headscarf
Hepburn’s love for headscarves was evident both on and off the screen. Whether tied over her beehive hairstyle with a micro-fringe peeking out or draped elegantly during her travels, the headscarf became a signature element of her style. This glamorous accessory made notable appearances in films like “Funny Face,” “Breakfast at Tiffany’s,” and “Charade.” It was always paired with dark sunglasses and gloves for a touch of mystery and sophistication.
4. The Black Polo Neck
Audrey Hepburn’s style often featured simple yet striking pieces, and the black polo neck is a prime example. In “Funny Face” (1957), her character Jo Stockton’s dance scene in a black polo neck, trousers, and penny loafers epitomized chic minimalism. This look inspires modern fashion, especially for those seeking a sophisticated yet comfortable work-from-home outfit.
5. The Gingham Trouser
Gingham trousers were another hallmark of Hepburn’s off-screen style. She often paired these trousers with simple flats and clean-lined white tops, creating a playful and polished look. Photographed by Norman Parkinson in 1955, Hepburn’s gingham trousers became a timeless trend, blending casual elegance with a hint of countryside charm.
6. The Ballet Flats
No footwear is more closely associated with Audrey Hepburn’s style than the ballet flat. Her background in dance made this choice both practical and stylish. Hepburn’s wardrobe, auctioned in 2017, revealed a collection of ballet flats in various colors, from sky blue to marigold, which she paired with everything from cropped trousers to swing skirts. This footwear choice remains a symbol of effortless grace and comfort.
7. The Indigo Jean
In “Two for the Road” (1967), Hepburn’s casual style took center stage. Her look in a tomato-red top, jeans, and sneakers captured the relaxed yet chic vibe of the 1960s. This film highlighted Hepburn’s ability to blend high fashion with everyday wear, making even the simplest outfits look iconic.
8. The Oversized White Shirt
Hepburn often embraced the oversized white shirt, which exudes effortless chic. Whether worn with bare legs or cinched at the waist, this item became a key part of her off-duty style. In “Breakfast at Tiffany’s,” the combination of an oversized white shirt and a turquoise sleep mask with metallic eyelashes created a playful and stylish look.
9. The White Lace Gown
Audrey Hepburn’s appearance at the 1954 Academy Awards in a Givenchy white lace dress marked a turning point in red-carpet fashion. Her win for Best Actress and her elegant lace gown set a new glamour standard. This belted-at-the-waist dress showcased her signature style: simple, elegant, and undeniably beautiful.
10. The Black Dress
Perhaps the most iconic item in Audrey Hepburn’s style arsenal is the black dress from “Breakfast at Tiffany’s.” This look, complete with pearls, sunglasses, and opera gloves, redefined the little black dress, making it a timeless staple in women’s wardrobes worldwide.