Audrey Hepburn, a timeless icon who passed away 30 years ago in 1993, continues to be revered as one of the best-dressed stars of all time.
Widely remembered for her enchanting roles in films like Breakfast at Tiffany's and Sabrina, Hepburn's ability to captivate hearts within minutes was acknowledged by none other than Billy Wilder during the filming of The Love of the Afternoon (1957). Paying homage to this unparalleled actress, Lunwerg publishing house presents a captivating book-object crafted by Megan Hess, a leading illustrator of our time.
Hess's illustrated biography delves into the enduring appeal of Hepburn, especially during the golden era of Hollywood in the 1950s and 1960s. Amidst the prevailing success of curvier figures like Marilyn Monroe, Elizabeth Taylor, and Sophia Loren, Hepburn's charm eclipsed them all, not solely due to her undeniable s-x appeal but also because of her irresistible character.
The illustrated biography commences by shedding light on Hepburn's early life. Born Edda van Heemstra Hepburn-Ruston on May 4, 1929, near Brussels, she grew up with a Dutch mother and English father. Following her parents' separation when she was ten, Hepburn split her time between her mother and father in London. Notably, her father's involvement with the British Union of Fascists was a traumatic event in her life.
During World War II, Hepburn and her mother faced hardships in Holland during the Nazi occupation. One of her brothers was sent to a labor camp, and her uncle and cousin were executed. Hepburn, like many children of that time, experienced hunger due to food shortages. The family survived by resorting to unconventional means, such as making flour from tulip bulbs and even consuming dog biscuits.
Post-war, Hepburn returned to London with a scholarship, pursuing her passion for dance under Marie Rambert, the teacher of legendary dancer Vaslav Nijinsky. However, she realized her height and lost training time were barriers to classical dance.
With mischievous eyes and a melancholic smile, Hepburn embraced a sophisticated simplicity in her dressing, described by illustrator Megan Hess as "natural elegance." Refusing embellishments like stilettos or shoulder pads, she inspired many women, even influencing choices like wedding dresses. Hepburn, known for her signature bun, large sunglasses, and black dresses, once remarked, "With my hair in a bun, big sunglasses, and a black dress, every woman can look like me."
Combining classic elegance with youthful flair, Hepburn set trends with her ballet flats and a love for scarves. Her theater debut in 1948 showcased her passion for scarves, and she later stated, "When I wear a silk scarf, that's when I feel more like a woman and more beautiful."
Her breakthrough came in 1951 when she caught the attention of French novelist Colette, who declared Hepburn the perfect actress for Broadway. From that moment, Hepburn's fame skyrocketed, marking her as an indelible icon whose elegance and charm continue to inspire generations.
