Johann Hunt
Style and elegance took on a new meaning in the ‘60s, driven by women who owned every room they entered. These icons weren’t afraid to challenge norms and redefine fashion with their fearless choices. Some even blended glamour with their individuality. Their bold looks and magnetic presence set trends that continue to inspire fashionistas of today. Here’s a tribute to those 10 women who made ‘60s style unforgettable.
Audrey Hepburn
Audrey Hepburn lit up the 1960s with unforgettable roles in “Breakfast at Tiffany’s” (1961) and “Charade” (1963). Her iconic “little black dress” turned into a timeless fashion staple, and her close collaboration with designer Givenchy shaped haute couture. Known for her delicate features and poise, Hepburn remains a symbol of minimalist style and beauty.
Brigitte Bardot
Famous for messy hair and smoky eyes, Brigitte Bardot became a ‘60s glamour icon. Notably, her daring bikini appearance at the Cannes Film Festival shocked many. Through memorable roles like “Contempt,” Bardot’s bold confidence left a lasting influence on fashion and culture that still inspires today.
Twiggy
Recognized as “The Face of 1966,” Twiggy revolutionized fashion with her boyish frame and striking mod style. She wore three layers of lashes and bold eyeliner that defined the era’s aesthetic. Modeling internationally by age 17, she helped popularize both the miniskirt trend and a new standard of beauty.
Elizabeth Taylor
In the 1960s, Elizabeth Taylor won two Academy Awards—first for “Butterfield 8” (1961) and later for “Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf?” (1967). Celebrated for her stunning violet eyes and the famous 33.19-carat Krupp Diamond, Taylor’s eight marriages kept her in the spotlight. Her glamorous and lavish style became an iconic look of the decade.
Jean Shrimpton
Jean Shrimpton appeared regularly in Vogue and Harper’s Bazaar, two of the world’s top fashion magazines, and earned the title “The Face of the ‘60s” alongside Twiggy. When she wore a miniskirt to the 1965 Melbourne Cup, it caused a global fashion sensation. Moreover, she broke fashion rules by skipping hats and gloves.
Jackie Kennedy
As First Lady, Jackie Kennedy made pillbox hats and structured suits popular through sleek designs by Oleg Cassini. Her pink Chanel suit became a lasting image of elegance, inspiring famous designers like Halston and securing her place as a timeless and influential fashion icon of the ‘60s.
Diana Ross
Diana Ross was a fashion and music icon of those times as the lead singer of The Supremes, Motown’s top group. Glamorous gowns, striking eyeliner, and voluminous hair helped her set trends that inspired audiences. In addition, appearances on “The Ed Sullivan Show” spread her style worldwide and made her an unforgettable fashion personality.
Julie Christie
Awarded both the Academy Award and BAFTA for Best Actress in 1966 for “Darling,” Julie Christie became a key figure in 1960s cinema. Known for her radiant, glamorous presence and ethereal beauty, she captivated audiences and directors like David Lean and John Schlesinger. Many of her roles reflected independent, forward-thinking women.
Rita Moreno
Rita Moreno achieved history in 1962 as the first Latina to win an Oscar thanks to “West Side Story.” Throughout the 1960s, she showcased her talents as a dancer, singer, and actress in major productions. Rita Moreno stood out with bold makeup, especially dramatic brows and bright lipstick, and later became an EGOT winner.
Sophia Loren
In 1962, Sophia Loren won the Best Actress Oscar for “Two Women,” a rare honor for a non-English role. Her style combined classic elegance with bold sensuality, often highlighted by curve-hugging gowns and glamorous makeup. Frequently starring alongside Marcello Mastroianni, a celebrated Italian actor and frequent co-star, she was a famous cinema style icon back then.