Audrey Hepburn is renowned not only for her roles in some of Hollywood's most iconic films but also for her stunning humanitarian work. However, dedicated fashion enthusiasts remember her best for her impeccable style.
From the unforgettable little black dress in Breakfast at Tiffany's to standout looks in Roman Holiday, My Fair Lady, Funny Face, and How to Steal a Million (my personal favorite), Hepburn's fashion and beauty moments have inspired countless fans for decades.
On screen, she often dazzled in lavish ballgowns (typically crafted by her friend Hubert de Givenchy) and sparkling jewels, but her personal style favored simplicity.
Audrey Hepburn in Givenchy for "Sabrina"
The original capsule wardrobe queen embraced cigarette pants, turtlenecks, and ballet flats, and unlike many of her contemporaries, she didn't conform to the male gaze. Instead, she forged her own path in fashion history, and for that, we are eternally grateful.
Below, discover 11 of the most remarkable Audrey Hepburn outfits of all time, complete with ideas to help you recreate these looks for yourself.
1.The Classic Cardigan
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Audrey Hepburn had a talent for styling cardigans and turtlenecks without looking like a librarian (though that look is cool now!). Many of her most memorable fashion moments revolved around staples like these. Hepburn was also a handbag aficionado, often opting for her beloved Louis Vuitton Speedy but sometimes showcasing unique pieces like this wicker basket bag.
2.Circle (Skirt) Time
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While Hepburn favored pants in her downtime, she also adored circle skirts. She loved merging traditionally feminine and masculine elements, as seen when she paired her skirt with ballet flats and a checked button-down blouse.
3.Shades of Brown
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This outfit, featured in Funny Face, mirrors Hepburn's personal style. In the film, her character, Jo Stockton, showcases a classic look consisting of a black long-sleeve top, black pants, and loafers—sound familiar? Here, she adds a timeless wool coat and a statement fur hat (check out our favorite winter hats). Hepburn's flair for simple styles with unique accessories is something we can all incorporate into our own outfits.
4.Parisian Off-Duty
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Though born in Belgium, Hepburn's style epitomizes French elegance. She favored functional yet chic pieces, especially black cigarette pants and flats. To channel Hepburn's French-girl aesthetic, consider donning a trench coat (like one of these) and tying your hair under a silk scarf. This simple yet stylish look can elevate any basic outfit.
5.Playful in the Vineyards
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While Hepburn typically avoided loud prints, she occasionally embraced playful elegance. In this look, she sported red-and-white gingham pants—one of her apparent favorites. Unsurprisingly, she balanced the ensemble with a cream sleeveless turtleneck and satin ballet flats (check out some of our favorite styles here).
6.Pattern Party
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Though a minimalist at heart, Hepburn knew how to have fun with fashion. She paired black patterned tights with a striped mini dress, and while each print is bold, they work harmoniously together. Completing the look with her signature ballet flats and circular sunglasses, another of her go-to accessories, was a perfect touch.
7.A Lesson in Layering
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In this ensemble, Hepburn demonstrated the art of layering by adding a white sleeveless blouse over her classic black long-sleeve. Our favorite detail of this outfit is undoubtedly her striking wedges. Hepburn took a traditionally feminine piece—the wedge heel—and paired it with tailored trousers for a refreshing twist. Overall, this look embodies the creative spirit of the "wrong shoe theory."
8.The Staple Wool Coat
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In this look, Hepburn showcased another signature wool coat, reminding us of the impact of statement outerwear. Sometimes, a well-structured wool coat can steal the spotlight. Hepburn paired this ensemble with rounded sunglasses, her Louis Vuitton Speedy, and what appears to be a croc clutch. Perhaps she was using two bags—one for function and another for flair? We're all for it!
9.Jetting Off in Style
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This iconic Audrey Hepburn airport ensemble features a fur-trimmed coat, black boots, and, of course, her trusty Louis Vuitton Speedy bag. Ironically, while the LV Speedy has gained a "kitschy" reputation in Y2K fashion thanks to celebs like Paris Hilton, it's truly a timeless accessory.
10.Hint of Retro
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Hepburn knew how to elevate a seemingly simple outfit with a statement accessory. In this case, she donned black pointed-toe boots, velvety pants, and a wool coat. Her playful sunglasses transformed the entire look into something even more chic (if that’s possible).
11.Pretty in Pink
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Audrey Hepburn's second marriage was to Italian psychiatrist Andrea Dotti, and on their wedding day, she defied bridal fashion norms. Instead of a traditional white gown, Hepburn chose an elegant pink dress designed by Givenchy. While she broke from convention, she added "traditional" bridal touches with white tights and her signature white ballet flats.
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