Fashion is always changing and evolving, but that doesn’t mean we shouldn’t look backwards sometimes to appreciate the fashions that have come before. Instead of looking to today’s celebrities for style tips, sometimes it’s more helpful to look to fashion “It Girls” of the past for even more inspiration.
If you consider yourself a fashionista, there are certain classic fashion icons that you need to be familiar with. Believe it or not, designers still draw inspiration from these iconic women to this day — and you can too.
Audrey Hebpburn
Where would any fashion icon list be without the chicest of the chic? Audrey Hepburn was the loveliest, most elegant woman to ever grace the silver screen. Always prim and proper, with her well-tailored clothes and gentle demeanor, Audrey proved that she was not only a brilliant actress, but also a humanitarian and a true lady. She exemplified the idea of being lovely inside and out, which, like her style, is something we can all still appreciate today.
Some could argue that Audrey Hepburn is the reason for fashion’s obsession with the Little Black Dress. Her classic Holly Golightly look from Breakfast at Tiffany’s is one of the most iconic ‘Old Hollywood’ photos out there. The simple Givenchy column gown, 3-strand pearl necklace, large tortoiseshell sunglasses, sleek updo, diamond earrings, and long cigarette holder will forever be known as an Audrey Hepburn-inspired look!
Diana Rose
Ultimate Diva, lead singer of the Supremes, and glamorous trendsetter to end all, Diana Ross went through all the decades with exquisite glamour, sass, and a gorgeous head of hair. Whether she was sporting a beehive, afro, or long locks, she paired her fantastic hair with sexy, sophisticated outfits and big dose of attitude to go with those glorious pipes.
Although Diana Ross’ style changed over the course of her career, Motown would not be what it is today without her influence. From extravagant wigs to embellished gowns, Diana shed a positive light on the term ‘diva’ and blurred the line between costume and everyday wear.
Katherine Hepburn
Katharine Hepburn was one of the most idolized actresses of her generation. On-screen, Katharine fashioned her very own personal style that embodied the American look, whereas her off screen wardrobe favored sportswear. Still, the costumes she wore for her movies are what shaped the Hepburn look into what it is today.
We owe a lot to Ms. Katharine Hepburn. By refusing to wear makeup and pushing boundaries by wearing pants on screen, she blazed a path for menswear-inspired looks for generations to come. But whether she was rocking a chic pantsuit, evening gown, or a peter pan collar blouse, she spoke her mind and was fearlessly herself.
Marilyn Monroe
Where would any fashion icon list be without Marilyn Monroe? Curvaceous, lovely, and enchanting, it’s no wonder she was every man’s dream girl in her day. Whether she was wearing hip hugging short shorts or a floral day dress, she always looked picture-perfect. But what made her most lovable was that she could be in-your-face sexy yet human and vulnerable at the same time.
Marilyn Monroe introduced sex appeal into the fashion industry. From high waisted bikinis to her classic The Seven Year Itch look, Marilyn paved the way for Hollywood luxurious trends and created a legacy that continues to be impersonated on a regular basis.
Grace Kelly
Decades before Meghan Markle hit the scene, there was Grace Kelly, the original American Princess. Silver screen actress and later Princess Grace of Monaco, Grace Kelly really lived up to her name. Poised, “grace”-ful, and loving, Grace — with her serene demeanor and polished, elegant look — will be remembered forever.
Grace Kelly’s classic, sophisticated style was always impeccable. Her iconic feminine dresses and tailored ensembles made her one of the most influential fashion icons of her time. In fact, Hermès renamed one of their purse designs, the Kelly Bag, after the actress was spotted toting one on numerous occasions.
-Rutuja Shinde
