It's hard to imagine, but Breakfast at Tiffany's - one of THE most iconic fashion films of all time - celebrates its 50th birthday this year, and what better way to toast its shining star than with an Audrey Hepburn season at the BFI.
Now, I may be a bit biased seeing as Breakfast at Tiffany's is my favourite film ever (I mean EVER), but no one can deny that it has spawned a thousand copycat looks since its release in 1961. What woman can say she doesn't have a little black dress in her wardrobe? The original, created for the film by the legendary designer Hubert de Givenchy, sold at auction in 2009 for over £46,000... that's one dedicated fan!
Though Breakfast at Tiffany's may be everyone's standout Hepburn moment, it's easy to forget the incredible fashion moments that graced so many of her other films. There are too many too list, but my pick of the bunch are:
- Funny Face: Audrey running down the steps of the Louvre in strapless red satin, trailing a chiffon scarf in her wake
- Sabrina: the stunning white Givenchy ballgown with black embroidery
- My Fair Lady: who can forget the crystal-encrusted gown that transformed Eliza Doolittle into a swan for the Ambassador's ball?
Unfortunately I for one seem devoid of Audrey's perfectly gamine figure, but it's easy to re-create her style nevertheless with a few key pieces:
- The Little Black Dress: where would we be without it? Every woman should have one.
- The White Shirt: crisp, clean and classic with a capital C.
- The Capri Pants: perfect for showing of dainty ankles.
- The Dark Turtleneck: in black or navy, very Paris Left Bank circa 1963. Avoid if you have a big bust though...
- The Ballet Pumps: Chanel preferable, or for us mere mortals Office have a gorgeous navy and cream pair.
- The Oversized Sunglasses: for hiding your eyes the morning after the night before, dahling!
For more style inspiration, be sure to visit the BFI until January 31st, where a veritable feast of Audrey will be on the big screen. Showings include all the classics; Breakfast at Tiffany's, Funny Face, Sabrina, Roman Holiday, My Fair Lady, How to Steal a Million, Charade, Paris When It Sizzles... I could go on...
For more information or to book tickets, visit the website at www.bfi.org.uk... >>>
