Audrey Hepburn ‘Had No Problem Rewearing Clothing’: Inside Her Signature Style from White Shirts to Those Iconic Black Dresses (Exclusive)

Audrey Hepburn, an enduring symbol of elegance and style, continues to captivate fashion enthusiasts decades after her heyday. The legendary actress graces the cover of this week’s issue of PEOPLE, with her sons, Sean Hepburn Ferrer and Luca Dotti, reflecting on her lasting influence as a fashion icon. To accompany this, author Pamela Keogh shares insights into why Hepburn’s style remains relevant and inspiring, even in today’s fashion landscape.

Hepburn’s fashion choices were not solely about high-end designer garments. Her versatility, evident in her ability to look stunning in both a chic little black dress and casual jeans and a sweater, is what has solidified her status as a timeless style authority. “She had a deep appreciation for clothing, aware of the role it played in her journey to fame,” explained Dotti. He noted that while Hepburn appreciated the glamour of fashion, she also embraced practicality, especially in her later years living in Switzerland and spending time in Africa, where her outfits consisted primarily of jeans, sneakers, and comfortable sweaters.

Keogh, who authored *Audrey Style*, emphasised Hepburn’s approach to her wardrobe. “She had exquisite clothing, but not an overwhelming amount, and she frequently re-wore items,” she stated. Given the quality and cost of garments during Hepburn’s era, it was common to cherish and maintain them diligently. Dotti recalled that his mother often let go of pieces that no longer fit her life stage, disregarding the notion of holding onto clothing simply as trophies.

Several signature items exemplify Hepburn’s style legacy, including oversized white button-down shirts and elegant little black dresses. Her ability to redefine and fashionably combine these elements was pioneering. An iconic moment occurs in *Breakfast at Tiffany’s*, where Hepburn dons a tuxedo shirt styled with a belt, an audacious choice that was considered both daring and chic at the time. “This shirt hinted at a wider narrative, suggesting a casual intimacy that was quite avant-garde,” Keogh remarked, noting how effortless and refined Hepburn always appeared, regardless of the outfit.

Hepburn’s influence reached beyond her immediate era; elements of her wardrobe, such as menswear-inspired shirts and oversized sunglasses, would later be adopted by other notable figures, including Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis. “Younger generations perceive Hepburn through various lenses—some envision the iconic eyewear and trench coat, while others connect with her humanitarian efforts or even her modern portrayals on platforms like TikTok,” Ferrer observed.

At the heart of Hepburn’s stylishness was her enduring relationship with designer Hubert de Givenchy. Dotti stated, “Hubert’s fashions remain remarkably contemporary. They resonate with today’s audiences in a way that speaks to Audrey’s timeless charm.” Hepburn served as both muse and friend to Givenchy, and their collaboration produced looks that remain stylish even today. Dotti explained how Hepburn preferred simplicity, desiring minimal embellishment—this relationship helped forge a modern aesthetic that still captivates contemporary audiences.

Keogh reiterated the significance of Hepburn’s choices, pointing out that, whether donning a Givenchy gown or simple black Capri pants paired with ballet flats, Hepburn’s elegance shone through. “Even in casual wear, her hair and makeup were meticulously styled, enhancing her innate grace,” she added, reinforcing the idea that Hepburn’s allure lay not only in her outfits but also in her overall presentation.

As we continue to explore and celebrate her legacy, it becomes clear that Audrey Hepburn’s influence embodies much more than just fashion. Her unique ability to blend comfort with elegance serves as a lesson in personal style. The enduring nature of her fashion choices is a reminder of the importance of authenticity in style; it is this authenticity that resonates with each generation and ensures that Hepburn remains a perpetual source of inspiration.

In a world where trends come and go, Hepburn’s timeless style principles continue to affirm her position as a true fashion icon, one that not only defined an era but also continues to inspire a multitude of fashion enthusiasts today.