From the opening of one of the World’s most prestigious film festivals by a film focused on the story of one and the recent celebrations of the anniversary of what would have been another’s 85^th birthday, my thoughts have turned to iconic women of past eras. I am referring to the inimitable Grace Kelly and the timeless Audrey Hepburn.

I have worshipped at the shrine of Audrey since first falling under her spell in Breakfast at Tiffany’s as a teenager and lost count of the number of times I have imagined myself as Kelly in To Catch a Thief leading Cary Grant a merry dance around the French Riviera.   But what accounts for these women’s relevance to today’s modern women?

 

I think that their appeal comes from the fact that they were not only stylish in their clothing choices but in the truest sense of the word, poised, elegant and exuding class. You can’t imagine either resorting to the kind of fashion one upmanship today’s filmstar/celebrities like to engage in. I like to think that they both managed to retain something of their true selves whilst still being successful in an industry not known for allowing this.  They both had signature styles which they adapted throughout their lifetimes. Kelly, had the ultimate hurdle – adapting hers to royalty.

Although not blessed with either of their body shapes, figures or bone structures their styles are something I return to for inspiration often. So with that in mind I have compiled some of my very favourite of their looks Follow Shape Your Wardrobe's board Style Icons on Pinterest.

I’ll be using it to inspire my wardrobe for my trip to the Cote D’Azur next week.  

Who is your style icon, I’d love to know, post a comment here or let us know on Twitter @ShapeWardrobeusing #SYWStyleicons

 If you like the idea of having a signature style but are not sure where to start, get in touch to see how Shape Your Wardrobe can help you discover it using your existing wardrobe.

 

 

 

Tags: audrey hepburn, elegance, grace kelly, hollywood glamour, style icons, timeless