When I think of classic fashion icons the names of Grace Kelly, Audrey Hepburn, and Jackie Kennedy come to mind. They epitomized class and classic fashion. While some may say they were staid in comparison to some of their contemporaries, I argue against that interpretation. While they didn’t push the envelope in terms of sexuality, like Marilyn Monroe or Jane Russell, they were each trendsetters in their own right. Each of these ladies was actually the guiding figure of their time, changing what was considered fashionable and not just wearing what was in fashion. They made fashion.
If these fashion icons were still alive today, what would they be wearing? I believe I have the answer. See my suggestions below.
Jackie Kennedy
Jackie Kennedy was a fashion-forward style icon the entire time she was in public life. While as the First Lady, she wore the designs of Oleg Cassini and helped to create a style that was known as the ‘Jackie Look’. Later she became known for a more bohemian style of wide-legged pants, black turtlenecks, Hermes scarves, and her iconic sunglasses. This look channels that trendsetting First Lady style.
A Matter of Tact Dress.
Best and Brightest Coat By Pink Martini.
Jacqueline Kennedy Black Leather Handbag.
Brass-Tipped Kitten Heels.
Kate Spade Double-strand Faux-pearl Necklace with bows.
Grace Kelly
Arguably one of the most beautiful women to have ever lived, Grace Kelly was also a style icon. Her style was one that exhibited elegance, grace, and polished simplicity. Additionally, as she transitioned into a Princess, and her wardrobe became more haute couture, she experimented with up-and-coming designers like Hubert de Givenchy and Yves Saint Laurent. She was such a popular figure and fashion lightning rod that the Hermes bag she carried during one of her pregnancies was named after her and continues to be called the ‘Kelly Bag’. This look above includes that very style.
The Vicky Green Dress by Bettie Page Clothing.
Les Cannes Silk Twill Scarf in Purple.
Hermes Iris Togo Kelly Bag in Iris.
Alexis Bittar Encrusted Amaryllis Statement.
Audrey Hepburn
The elfish and slender Audrey Hepburn went against the trend for more bosomy and shapely actresses of her time. Taking a cue from her natural gracefulness, the designer Hubert de Givenchy chose Audrey as his muse and designed clothes for her all her life. Audrey takes her cue from the expertly designed and detail-oriented designs dressed in exquisite, yet elegantly simple accessories. Later in life, Miss Hepburn said, “[Givenchy] gave me a look, a kind, a silhouette. He has always been the best and he stayed the best. Because he kept the spare style that I love. What is more beautiful than a simple sheath made in an extraordinary way in a special fabric, and just two earrings?” This look includes a few more accessories, but all work together to complement the dress.
Lace Décor Full Swing Dress by TS Vintage.
Alexis Bittar ‘Dust’ Long Raindrop Earrings.
Audrey Lilian Shopper in Black.
White Nappa Ladies Brogue Gloves.
Herringbone Wool & Black Velvet Pump Shoes.
Where To Buy Vintage
If you are seeking vintage clothing like Jane Norman or Laura Ashley there are plenty of websites to hunt for like Vestiaire.
