Audrey dressed from head to toe in beatnik black, except for the white socks… This is how millions of people picture the actress when they hear her name. She donned the now legendary black polo neck, 7/8 cigarette pants and Ferragamo suede penny loafers for the energetic dance sequence in the 1957 feel-good musical Funny Face. The movie tells the story of bookstore assistant Jo Stockton (Audrey Hepburn) who finds her store overrun for a fashion magazine photoshoot. Photographer Dick Avery (Fred Astaire) is intrigued by Jo’s unique appearance. He convinces her to come to Paris, where she’s turned into a much sought-after supermodel and, of course, falls in love. Funny Face wasn’t a blockbuster success when it was first released, but has become a classic, just like Audrey’s stovepipe trousers ensemble

This is undoubtedly one of the most iconic Audrey outfits of all time, and the perfect choice for the wonderful Parisian nightclub scene. The minimalist clothes emphasized her gamine features, dancer’s physique and lithe, supple movements. The entire movie is a visual feast, chock-full of magnificent outfits created by renowned Hollywood designer Edith Head and French couturier Hubert de Givenchy. They received well-deserved Oscar nominations for their brilliant costume designs. But I have to say that, as much as I adore the long red strapless evening gown or the super chic coat and midi dress outfit at the train station (complete with gorgeous hat and adorable Yorkie), I too fell hard for Audrey’s black dance ensemble. And in all its elegant simplicity it continues to be one of my favourite movie outfits of all time.

If you have seen the movie, what is your top fashion pick? And which other film costumes would you say have become as iconic as Audrey’s?

Now in YLF Book Club

We are chatting about Dana Thomas’ Deluxe – How Luxury Lost Its Luster, a behind-the-scenes look at how the luxury fashion industry has changed drastically over the years. Join us in today’s kick-off thread to add your two cents.

Quick Reminder: On the Book Club page you can find the schedule of previous, current and future Book Club titles.