Everyone Loves Audrey
Sept. 24, 2006 — -- Fifty years ago, she was the toast of Hollywood and a style icon. And more than 10 years after her death, Audrey Hepburn is still setting trends.
From big sunglasses to her ubiquitous skinny black pants, Hepburn's look is back.
Donald Spoto talks about the so-called "Audrey effect" in his new biography, "Enchantment: The Life of Audrey Hepburn."
Spoto says the starlet's combination of vulnerability and vivacity makes her so enduring. New audiences have been exposed to Hepburn's glamour thanks to Gap ads featuring her dance from the movie "Funny Face" -- reset to the AC/DC song "Back in Black."
According to Spoto, "Funny Face" was a turning point in Hepburn's career.
"She realized in that film what had been her ambition as a child and teenager, which was to be a ballet dancer," Spoto said.
Sadly, because of malnutrition and illness she suffered during World War II, she wasn't able to realize her dream.
As fans of Hepburn know, she nevertheless went on to have a fulfilling career, all the while turning heads with her signature looks. In an interview with ABC's Barbara Walters, Hepburn said her style was attainable to everyone.
"They can look like Audrey Hepburn if they want to by cutting off their hair, by buying the large glasses, by having the little sleeveless dresses," she said.
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