Reader Inspired: Simple, Classic, Audrey Hepburn Style

Pamela Lutrell in classic simple style

As I was preparing another slideshow for one of our readers, Becky, it occurred to me to use the opportunity to show how style adjectives can sometimes be found in an icon.  Becky desires her style to be classic, polished, appropriate (to her age, lifestyle, occasions), simple, and confident.  As I read her list, I thought of Audrey Hepburn.  Audrey was an actress noted for the simple, confident classic style.

Pamela Lutrell in ballet flats for classic style

FOUNDATIONS OF HEPBURN’S STYLE

She was known for

  1. Tight cropped pants
  2. Head-to-toe black
  3. Ballet flats
  4. Flaired skirts
  5. Trench coats
  6. Hats and head scarves (I finally understand why my mother and many of her friends wore headscarves! Jackie Kennedy probably sealed the trend)

 

Pamela Lutrell in simple style

She definitely has inspired modern women with simple, minimal, classic style.  Her classic camel trench coat is known best in Breakfast at Tiffany’s and though I love this look, I also love my black trench coat and wear it often.  There are many days I desire a simple classic look (especially for work) and I often think of Hepburn’s style.  Though I am not pencil-thin, it is possible to make it work for any size and with confidence.  This outfit is almost too simple for me…I kept feeling like I needed an accessory.  But, my style adjectives include CREATIVE and that is why I feel that way.  These are my new Total Motion Hidden Wedge ballet flats from Rockport which I purchased recently during their 40% off sale.  I have worn four pair of ballet flats into the ground over the last 10 years.  I chose these for comfort…I can always depend upon Rockport Total Motion or Cobb Hill collections for comfort. 

NOW FOR BECKY’S STYLE

Becky would have to let us know how simple she likes to be, but assuming she is Hepburn-style, I did not include any accessories in the slideshow other than shoes.  Here we go with pieces to inspire Becky and women like her who are classic, polished, appropriate, simple and confident.  If this is you, please tell us how you decide how many accessories to include in an outfit!

 

Thanks for participating, Becky.  If any other readers would like to send to me the adjectives they want to communicate with their clothing, please send five to over50feeling40@gmail.com . Tomorrow we are looking at someone who included creative and fun!!

KEEP SMILING!!

By Pamela Lutrell

18 Comments

  1. I’m with Becky! I often channel Audrey Hepburn and Grace Kelly. I like the look you put together here. I see where it is too simple for your creativity, but good to know that there is beauty in simplicity too. When I feel like I need something to finish a look, I start with a delicate necklace to draw attention to the neckline of a shirt like you’re wearing. Often I add a scarf for interest. Usually I start with simple and tweak it until it feels right! I really like the slide show you put together!

  2. I would be tempted to add some pattern to the outfit. It could either be a piece of (vintage) filigree jewelry. i.e.: A necklace with a delicate chain but statement pendant, a brooch or a bracelet. Another alternative would be, ballet flats or a handbag that either have a punched, woven or printed design. Also agree with the addition of a printed scarf as an option, but would creatively tie it. i.e: Justine Leconte/20 Ways To Wear A Scarf – You Tube -Brenda-

  3. This is a great presentation for Miss Becky’s adjectives! Grace Kelly and Jackie O are also great examples of elegance and simplicity. The more ladies you feature, the more I can see that your styling of your outfits is spot on with your adjectives. Bypass the fast fashion, ladies, know who you are and what image you want to project! I remember a very old I Love Lucy episode where Lucy and Ethyl were duped into thinking that wearing what looked like a bucket for a hat and wallpaper for a dress was the fashion. (Details might not be perfectly accurate but you get the idea.)

  4. Pretty basic, but stunning! I’d have to add a colorful scarf just draped down over the jacket, a long necklace or at least an armful of gold bangles?

  5. Are you tying the belt on the trench in the back? Mine never looks right when I tie it.

  6. Hi Nyla! I tossed the belt and took a razor blade and removed the belt loops. The tie made my hips appear so large!

  7. Pam, I love your outfit today and love, love love the slide show! I find I am dressing more classic with basic pieces, using simple bangles, scarves or necklaces for the extra pop. Can’t beat black and white.

  8. Thank you, Pam! Audrey Hepburn & Jackie O have always been two of my favorite style icons, so I love my style show. I recently purchased a black wool coat in the trench coat style & wear it with a soft winter white knit scarf. I noticed several items were from Talbott’s which is a favorite store for its classic styles. You nailed it!

  9. Queen Elizabeth still wears head scarves. It dates me but so did I years ago along with white gloves!.
    Loved this post, thank you.

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