Ready Made Outfit: Modern Katharine Hepburn
November 7th, 2008
Since we created a Modern Marilyn Monroe outfit, we’ve been flooded with requests to create modern versions of other style icons–Audrey Hepburn, Katharine Hepburn, Grace Kelly, and Brigitte Bardot, to name a few. Today, we’re recreating the look of Katharine Hepburn, whose signature masculine-yet-casual style broke the dress code in Hollywood at a time when women were expected to wear dresses and skirts. Here’s how to get Katharine Hepburn’s look:
1. Start with a pair of menswear inspired trouser pants (Katharine’s signature). A wide leg style with cuffs is not only modern, but it also creates a more-than-subtle reference to Katharine herself.
2. Balance the menswear inspired trousers with a loose-fitting white button-down shirt with a feminine touch. Casualize this classic shirt, featuring tuxedo ruffles, by leaving the top button or two undone and rolling up the sleeves.
3. As for accessories, no heels–flats best epitomize Katharine’s signature masculine style. We like these tailored patent flats, but if you’d like to keep your outfit truer to Katharine’s style, look for a pair of loafers instead. Finish the outfit with a wide belt, which modernizes the look, and a muted scarf.
How would you update Katharine Hepburn’s style for today? Share your style with us in the comments!
Entry Filed under: Ready Made Outfits,Women
6 Comments
1. Lynn | November 7th, 2008 at 7:35 am
Love it! Loved Kate!
I only wish 5’0″ and 125 pounds could get away with this outfit!!
2. Trisha | November 10th, 2008 at 12:47 am
Hi Lynn,
5’0″ and 125 pounds can get away with this outfit–look for flat front wide leg pants (very elegant) and slip on a pair of heels for extra height. For the shirt, try one with high armholes to give you the leanest, longest look.
-Trisha
3. Lynn | November 10th, 2008 at 7:03 am
Ooh, great idea! I had never thought of even LOOKING at the armholes as a difference-maker. Maybe I still don’t know how to pick out classic white shirts. I typically get loose-fitting shirtsleeves that don’t show the arms.
Hmmm… Makes me want to go shopping and I HATE to shop!
Thanks Trish! As always, enjoy the real-people advice!
4. Mimi | November 10th, 2008 at 2:36 pm
This is good but it’s the look I’m trying to get away from. I was always in trousers, plain blouses, understated accessories. LOL
I think what helps make the look a classic is the wider leg trousers
It’s an elegant, timeless look that I think can be a perfect “go to” style when you want to look stylish but aren’t feeling very creative.
5. Trisha | November 10th, 2008 at 11:19 pm
Lynn – The armholes really do make a difference – you’ll instantly look and feel leaner
Glad to help!
Mimi – Yup, I know this isn’t super inspirational for you, but I do recommend the wider leg trousers and a wide belt
Perhaps switch out the plain white button-down for a pretty blouse in a bright color?
6. Lynn | December 17th, 2008 at 10:33 am
Hey, Trish!
I know this is old, but wanted to tell you thanks for the advice. Tried it out and works great!!!
Smaller armholes made so much of a difference, I couldn’t believe it! Got some great low-rise, wide-leg grey slacks with a touch of sheen. Fitted white top. Bright metallic colored scarf. The only change I did was that I wear heels (that 5’0″ insecurity! LOL). I also topped it with a cropped red jacket for the walk in because it’s cold outside!
But this is a GREAT look I’ll be using as a flexible no-fail outfit for a long time!