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Audrey Hepburn's Iconic Dress Auction

Audrey Hepburn's Iconic Dress Auction
Audrey Hepburn's Iconic Dress Auction

Unveiling the Icon: Audrey Hepburn's Famous Dress

Audrey Hepburn in "Breakfast at Tiffany's"

In 1961, the legendary Audrey Hepburn charmed audiences around the world with her portrayal of Holly Golightly in Blake Edwards' classic film, "Breakfast at Tiffany's." At the heart of this iconic film was the stunning Givenchy little black dress that Hepburn wore, designed by the illustrious Hubert de Givenchy. This dress not only set fashion trends; it became a symbol of elegance and style that transcends generations.

The Significance of the Little Black Dress

The little black dress, often abbreviated as LBD, has become a staple in women's fashion. Hepburn’s stunning embodiment of sophistication and grace in this outfit at the film's opening scene redefined the way black dresses were perceived, establishing them as essential for any wardrobe. The dress is not just a garment; it encapsulates the essence of 1960s fashion and Hepburn's timeless elegance.

Auctioning History: A Landmark Event

Record-Breaking Auction at Christie's

Fast forward to 2006, the original Givenchy dress from "Breakfast at Tiffany's" was auctioned at Christie's in London, fetching a staggering record price of £467,200 ($923,187). This extraordinary sum highlighted not only the allure of the dress itself but also the lasting legacy of Audrey Hepburn as a fashion icon and cultural icon.

The Cause Behind the Bidding

The auction was organized for charity, with proceeds benefiting the Audrey Hepburn Children's Fund. The event resonated with fans of Hepburn, who appreciated the opportunity to contribute to a good cause while celebrating the life and career of one of Hollywood’s most beloved stars. The excitement surrounding the auction was palpable, as collectors and fashion enthusiasts competed for a piece of cinematic history.

Fun Fact

Audrey Hepburn’s Surprising Influence

Interestingly, Audrey Hepburn is credited with helping to popularize the little black dress as a fashion staple, but her influence goes beyond clothing; she was also a humanitarian known for her dedication to children's rights and her work with UNICEF.

Additional Resources

Recommended Reading on Audrey Hepburn

For those interested in diving deeper into the life of this remarkable woman, consider reading “Audrey: The 60s” which showcases her influence during that era, and “The Audrey Hepburn Treasures” that contains rare photographs and memorabilia related to her life and career.