Audrey Hepburn, a prominent figure in 1950s and 60s cinema, epitomized the evolution of 1960s Casual Fashion. From the elegant styles of the early decade to the burgeoning hippie movement towards the end, Hepburn’s wardrobe choices reflected the changing times. Her influence, cemented by roles in iconic films like Roman Holiday, Sabrina, and Funny Face, continued to resonate throughout the sixties.
Hepburn’s 1961 role as Holly Golightly in Breakfast at Tiffany’s solidified her status as a fashion icon. The film showcased her collaboration with designer Hubert de Givenchy, who created memorable costumes, including the legendary black dress. This partnership, both on and off-screen, cultivated a signature look: simple yet sophisticated, easily emulated by women of all backgrounds.
Early 60s Fashion: Elegance and Simplicity
The early 1960s saw Hepburn embracing a feminine aesthetic akin to Jackie Kennedy’s style. She favored tailored skirt suits, often accessorized with gloves and hats, mirroring the First Lady’s polished look. A prime example is the green Givenchy suit she wore in the 1962 film Paris When It Sizzles.
Hepburn’s wardrobe in the 1963 film Charade further exemplifies this classic style. Her outfits, while fitting for a First Lady, also exuded a chic Parisian flair as she navigated the city’s romantic backdrop. These ensembles showcased the refined elegance that defined early 60s fashion.
Mid-60s Mod Style: A Shift in Fashion
As the decade progressed, Hepburn’s style evolved, embracing the emerging “Mod” trends. This shift incorporated brighter colors and minidresses into her wardrobe. The 1966 film How to Steal a Million showcased her adoption of this modern aesthetic.
In this film, Hepburn sported iconic white-rimmed sunglasses, reflecting the Space Age influence, and a chic bob hairstyle accentuated by dark eyeliner, achieving the popular doe-eyed look of the era. These elements perfectly captured the essence of mid-60s mod style.
Late 60s Fashion: A Transition Period
By the late 1960s, fashion trends began gravitating towards Eastern influences and longer hemlines. While the world embraced these new styles, Hepburn, in a symbolic gesture, chose a pink minidress for her 1969 wedding to Andrea Dotti.
This choice represented a segment of society, including designers like Givenchy, who were yet to fully embrace the changing fashion landscape. Her enduring elegance, however, continued to inspire. Hepburn’s style journey throughout the 60s provides a captivating glimpse into the evolution of fashion during this transformative decade.
