The 15 Staples of Audrey Hepburn’s Signature Style

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The 15 Staples of Audrey Hepburn’s Signature Style

In This Article

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In This Article
  • Boatneck Blouse
  • Body-Skimming Black Separates
  • Peter-Pan Collar
  • Vintage Headscarf
  • Oversized Black Sunnies
  • Striped Basics
  • Black Loafers
  • Micro Shorts
  • Black Turtleneck
  • Straw Hat
  • Gold Statement Earring
  • Cropped Trousers
  • Hairbands
  • Ballet Flats
  • A Belt
Audrey Hepburn applying lipstick in a handheld mirrorAudrey Hepburn applying lipstick in a handheld mirror

Getty Images

Audrey Hepburn has been a style icon ever since she first graced the silver screen, and when we take a look at her ensembles throughout the years, it’s easy to see why her way of dressing transcends decades. The star’s outfit choices are easy to recreate yet decidedly inspired, with her signature looks ranging from classic silhouettes like little black dresses to preppy prints and charming details such as headscarves and Peter Pan collars. Hepburn also knew the power of boatneck blouses, cropped pants, and black turtlenecks—all impeccably tailored, of course. Whether you’re dressing for a special occasion or simply want to elevate your everyday wardrobe, channeling the movie star’s timeless appeal is easier than you think. Ahead, we’ve rounded up 15 ways you can channel Audrey Hepburn’s style, complete with product picks to shop.

Boatneck Blouse

Audrey HepburnAudrey Hepburn

Getty Images / Hulton Archive 

Chances are you have a bunch of V-neck or scoop-neck blouses already, but have you considered an Audrey Hepburn-style boatneck? It’s a subtle detail that makes an elegant impact, especially for photos from the shoulders up.

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Body-Skimming Black Separates

Audrey HepburnAudrey Hepburn

Getty Images / Bettmann

Hepburn loved her tight, black separates. Today, they make for the easiest, no-brainer outfit you can imagine—and remember, all-black outfits are anything but boring when styled and accessorized properly.

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Peter-Pan Collar

Audrey HepburnAudrey Hepburn

Getty Images / Donaldson Collection 

Audrey Hepburn provided us with a masterclass in wearing Peter Pan collars without looking childlike. Look for elevated, statement fabrics to make this style feel anything but juvenile. A chic blouse or wool coat will pair beautifully with this sweet collar.

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Vintage Headscarf

Audrey HepburnAudrey Hepburn

Getty Images / Bettmann

The actress loved a headscarf moment so much that she wore one on her wedding day. Can we take a moment for this pastel pink coordination that Hepburn styled for her second marriage?

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Oversized Black Sunnies

Audrey Hepburn in black dress, pearl necklace, updo with tiara, and black sunglassesAudrey Hepburn in black dress, pearl necklace, updo with tiara, and black sunglasses

Getty Images / Donaldson Collection 

When most of us hear the name Audrey Hepburn, an image of her in this iconic look from Breakfast at Tiffany’s is what pops into our heads. The actress frequently wore all sorts of shades, but oversized sunglasses were her style of choice as Holly Golightly.

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Striped Basics

Audrey Hepburn wears striped top and black pantsAudrey Hepburn wears striped top and black pants

Getty Images / Phil Burchman 

If you ever need a reason to update your striped shirt arsenal, a look at vintage Audrey Hepburn photos will do the trick. A striped shirt in any color will never get old and is a classic way to add a bit of personality to your outfit.

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Black Loafers

Audrey Hepburn wears a head scarf, trench coat, skinny pants, and loafersAudrey Hepburn wears a head scarf, trench coat, skinny pants, and loafers

Getty Images / Paramount Pictures 

Yet another staple with the screen darling’s stamp of approval: the black loafer. With a shrunken trench, cropped trousers, and tall socks, you’ve got a timeless look for every day. Loafers can elevate an off-duty outfit or tone down something a little dressier for more options.

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Micro Shorts

Audrey Hepburn wears a plaid shirt and white shorts while standing on a sailboatAudrey Hepburn wears a plaid shirt and white shorts while standing on a sailboat

Getty Images / Archive Photos

For your next boat ride (or just a crosstown walk), a pair of short shorts and a chic blouse make for a sweet summer ensemble. In the movie of the same name, Hepburn’s character Sabrina wore this look for a day out on the boat, but we think it works just as well for a coffee date or running errands.

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Black Turtleneck

Audrey Hepburn wears a black turtleneck layered under a cardiganAudrey Hepburn wears a black turtleneck layered under a cardigan

Getty Images / Graphic House 

Everyone knows about the little black dress, but what a black turtleneck? Some of Hepburn’s most iconic moments included the staple piece. The beauty of turtlenecks is that they come in different materials of varying thicknesses, so you can either wear one as a stand-alone piece or layer it under cardigans and coats.

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Straw Hat

Audrey Hepburn wears a straw hat and white turtleneck top with red gingham bottomsAudrey Hepburn wears a straw hat and white turtleneck top with red gingham bottoms

Getty Images / Silver Screen Collection 

Hepburn loved a good hat moment, and we’re getting major inspo from this straw hat for our next trip somewhere warm. A practical yet stylish design like the above will certainly be a welcome addition to your travel capsule wardrobe.

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Gold Statement Earring

Audrey HepburnAudrey Hepburn

Getty Images / Bettmann 

The best way to add a little something extra to an otherwise simple outfit? Some stunning gold earrings, of course. Here, Hepburn opted for gold statement hoops to add some fun to a classic blazer jacket.

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Cropped Trousers

Audrey Hepburn wears a white and black shirt, slim trousers, and white wedge shoesAudrey Hepburn wears a white and black shirt, slim trousers, and white wedge shoes

Getty Images / Pictorial Parade 

Thought those trousers were too short on you? Think again, as Hepburn was all about a cropped capri or a pedal pusher. A shorter length feels effortlessly playful for roaming around chic locales during the warmer months.

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Hairbands

Audrey Hepburn wearing a headband as she practice ballet at the barre.Audrey Hepburn wearing a headband as she practice ballet at the barre.

Getty Images

Headbands are constantly going in and out of fashion, but whenever we see a picture of Audrey Hepburn rehearsing ballet at the barre, we immediately want to dig through our collection.

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Ballet Flats

audrey hepburn on a bicycle with dog in basketaudrey hepburn on a bicycle with dog in basket

Getty Images / Cecil Beaton

Brigitte Bardot may be the Old Hollywood icon closest tied to the invention of ballet flats, but Hepburn also made the look her own and became synonymous with the silhouette. From black to white and round-toed to pointed, the actress embraced countless variations of the shoe. She even wore them on her wedding day, making an unforgettable statement.

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A Belt

Audrey Hepburn in "Roman Holiday" in a white shirt and voluminous midi skirtAudrey Hepburn in "Roman Holiday" in a white shirt and voluminous midi skirt
Eddie Albert, Audrey Hepburn and Gregory Peck, “Roman Holiday” Copyright Paramount Pictures.

Copyright Paramount Pictures

Audrey Hepburn loved her circle skirts, and she was rarely without a waist belt to accompany the garment. Not only did a belt accentuate her waist, but it also brought style icon energy to an otherwise simple shirt and skirt combo.

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FAQ
  • How do I dress like Audrey Hepburn?

    You can channel Audrey Hepburn by wearing form-fitted silhouettes, cropped trousers, and high-waisted skirts—and always keep a few basics, such as sweaters and boat neck blouses, in your closet. As for accessories, Hepburn loved statement sunglasses and headscarves, so be sure to incorporate them into your wardrobe when inspiration strikes.

  • Why is Audrey Hepburn a style icon?

    Audrey Hepburn’s signature style was both comfortable and elegant, making it easily attainable to replicate. Her ability to elevate everyday wear into sophisticated looks that were the epitome of timeless European fashion is what makes her style classic and iconic.

  • What kind of pants did Audrey Hepburn wear?

    Audrey Hepburn frequently wore cropped trousers and capri pants (often black), which suited her petite frame.

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