There are certain women that will always be remembered, for both their silver screen or TV roles and performances and their outfit choices.
We probably all have style icons we adore, admire and wish we could copy in real life. The truth of the matter is, certain looks are way too controversial – like Madonna’s cone bra, while others are simply stunning but don’t really go with the lifestyle of us mere mortals.
Realistically, can you imagine yourself dressing like Marilyn Monroe in Gentlemen Prefer Blondes, taking a cab and going off to even a party, let alone a less ‘classy’ event like work or an evening hangout with friends?
Yes, there are many iconic looks, but we’ve chosen the three that you can actually pull off in real life without looking like you’re wearing a Halloween costume – looks that you can wear and look like you’re stylishly paying homage to your all-time-favourite diva, so let’s dive in and discover them, so you can start gathering the pieces for your very own iconic outfits.
The most iconic of them all
The elegance, the simplicity, the sophistication – these are the words to describe Audrey Hepburn’s iconic little black dress look from the cult classic Breakfast at Tiffany’s. The best thing about this particular outfit is that you’ll achieve the show-stopping look you probably wish to achieve at the next big party you have without looking like you’re wearing a costume. All you really need is a black sleeveless floor-length gown (which every girl should have in her closet). If you prefer a shorter version, that is okay too, but this one makes for a much stronger impact. Of course, it would be amazing if you could find or sew one with a semi-open back, but even a closed one will work. Then, you need a statement necklace – it doesn’t have to look exactly like hers, but make sure there’s a strong resemblance – you can even purchase a broche and some fake pearls and make it yourself. Next is the hair. If you don’t have fringes or bangs, there are always clip-on ones you can buy, but you don’t have to go that far. Classic black pumps and the recognizable updo will suffice and you will have channeled your inner Audrey. Gloves are optional – if you’re invited to a black or white tie event, go for it.
The easiest kind
Who could ever forget the adorable Jean Seberg and her androgynous yet somehow ultra feminine look featured in the publicity shots taken for the 1958 Brit-satire film The Mouse That Roared? The classic stripes on the Breton top reminiscent of the typical nonchalantly chic French girls topped off with a rolled up pair of boyfriend denim jeans is a timeless combo. It features two timeless items of clothing that you can pair up time and time again, wear to work or even to a nonchalant French style lunch date. In this photo, Seberg is barefoot, but if she were wearing shoes, we have a sneaking suspicion they would be simple black ballerina flats. As the final touch, add a simple black crossbody bag – something timeless like a classic Chanel bag. If you have a cute pixie, the look will be spot-on, but even if you don’t, you can always put your hair in a sleek and simple bun.
Blast from the past
In a year where plaid is carrying the crown, it would be simply silly not to ride this wave and recreate one of the most iconic looks all ‘90s girls remember – the yellow ensemble Cher wore on her first day of school in Clueless. In 2018, this look would totally exude costume vibes, but thanks to the plaid trend, you can get away with this like it’s nobody’s business. All you need is a little yellow plaid blazer, with a pleated skirt to match (if you think Cher’s is just a touch too short, feel free to make yours a little longer). A little yellow cardigan over a simple white tee is a must and so are the white shoes (luckily, the white shoe trend lives). However, in order to dodge the ‘costume bullet’, we suggest you steer clear of the white over-the-knee socks, as this might take things in the wrong direction. A tiny bag is a must, and you have to say ‘as if’ to someone at least once that day.
See, it’s not that difficult, you just have to pick your moments and your divas, gather up some goodies that are easy to find now, and you’re in the star-channeling business in no time. Happy dressing up!
Mia Taylor is a fashion and beauty enthusiast from Sydney and writer for www.highstylife.com. She loves writing about her life experiences. Travelling and enjoying other cultures and their food with her husband is a big part of her life. She is always on the lookout for new trends in fashion and beauty, and considers herself an expert when it comes to lifestyle tips.
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