Audrey Hepburn

Born in Brussels in 1929, Audrey Hepburn remains one of Hollywood's most enduring fashion icons. Her 1950s elegance and elfin chic redefined an era obsessed with Hollywood curves and hourglass shapes, revolutionising the popular trends of the time and creating a whole new silhouette to be copied by many. Hepburn became the original waif, favouring clean lines and minimalist fits paired with simple yet bold accessories; a look that was to be reinterpreted and imitated for decades to come.

An encounter with Hubert de Givenchy began the start of a life-long friendship and collaboration between the pair that often saw Hepburn acting as muse for many of Givenchy’s designs. After creating the spectacular white and black ball gown for the 1954 comedy-drama Sabrina, Givenchy then worked with Hepburn on the costumes for the majority of her films, as well as creating pieces for her personal wardrobe. Their partnership allowed Hepburn to transform from a relative unknown gamine to a Hollywood star in her own right. Not being a fan of over-embellishment or garish pattern, his classic and stylish creations appealed to her. "Balenciaga once said the secret of elegance is elimination," she said. "I believe that. That’s why I love Hubert Givenchy… They’re clothes without ornament, with everything stripped away."

Perhaps the most loved and memorable image of Hepburn is the Breakfast at Tiffany’s black and white photograph of her sat, poised with a cigarette holder in hand, a tiara delicately placed upon her top knot and pearls decorating her slender shoulders. It is an image that immediately springs to mind when remembering Hepburn, and one that highlights her grace as a fashion icon.

The BFI Southbank, London is hosting a retrospective look at the films of Audrey Hepburn, starting today and running until 3 February 2011.

Text by Felicity Shaw