Audrey Hepburn Funny Face Dresses – Her Sensational 1950s Fashion
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Audrey Hepburn Funny Face is a treasure trove of Audrey Hepburn fashion inspiration and 1950’s style.
It’s an exclusive behind-the-scenes glimpse into the world of photo shoots, Parisian runways, and high couture fashion.
This ugly duckling transformation story centers on Audrey Hepburn.
What did Audrey Hepburn wear in Funny Face?
In Funny Face, Audrey Hepburn wore a stunning collection of 1950s fashion.
Her outfits ranged from casual pant outfits, to tailored suits, to an amazing collection of gowns. These included day dresses, evening gowns, and the iconic Givenchy wedding dress.
She wore loafers for her casual styles, and low pointy heels for her dressy styles.
Audrey Hepburn loved to accessorize her outfits with hats, scarves, and simple jewelry.
This post is all about Audrey Hepburn style in Funny Face and its iconic 1950s fashion.
Who designed the clothes in the Funny Face movie?
The Funny Face costumes were designed by both Edith Head and Hubert De Givenchy. The outfits in the first part of the movie were designed by Edith Head, with Audrey Hepburn’s Paris Wardrobe designed by Givenchy.
Audrey Hepburn insisted that her friend the Hubert de Givenchy design all of the Paris show outfits.
“When I first went to Hubert, I was still in home-made dresses.” — Audrey Hepburn
This blend of fashion talent is why the style in this movie is so iconic and timeless.
Edith Head was the legendary 1950’s and 1960’s costume designer, who won eight Academy Awards for her work. A record!
Edith Head helping design the style of Old Hollywood glamour.
For Funny Face, she was the creator behind the costumes in the “Think Pink!” sequence. This has been dubbed “its own fashion show.”
Edith Head is also known for creating some of the timeless Hitchcock fashions, as you can see in the following posts:
- Tippie Hedren Marnie – Her Stunning 1960s Fashion
- Kim Novak’s Wardrobe in Vertigo makes her the Ultimate Hitchcock Blonde
Audrey Hepburn Style
Although most of the style in Funny Face is glam high fashion, yet Audrey Hepburn’s signature casual chic style does come out a few times.
You’ll love her casual pant outfits when she first arrives in Paris.
Givenchy was a master when it come to styling outfits for Audrey Hepburn’s body type and essence.
As the film director, Stanley Donan said:
“His design, his thought centered and focused on her [Audrey’s] physical being. It’s like a great composer when he writes for a great artist. She was the physical expression of what Givenchy did.”
Audrey Hepburn also said of Givenchy, “His are the only clothes in which I am myself.”
Funny Face Summary
The bookish and dowdy Jo Stockton (Audrey Hepburn) is a bookshop clerk.
She is an amateur philosopher and her entire world is books and ideas.
Her life is turned upside down when a fashion magazine, Quality Magazine (the 1950’s imitation of Harper’s Bazaar), shows up at her bookstore. They turn it into a photoshoot, against her fierce protests.
The fashion photographer Dick Avery (Fred Astaire) snaps a picture of her.
He then realizes in that she is the perfect model for the new face the magazine is searching for.
The practical Jo Stockton is talked into modeling because it means a free trip to Paris.
For her that is a dream come true. It means that she can meet the esteemed French philosopher that she is obsessed with.
Along the way, she discovers that she loves fashion and falls in love too!
Fun fact!
The photographer, Dick Avery (played by Fred Astaire), who partners with the lead fashion magazine editor (played by Kay Thompson) are based on a famous 1950s fashion duo, the photographer Richard Avedon and Harper’s Bazaar’s fashion editor Diana Vreeland. The real fashion photographer, Richard Avedon, collaborated in the production of Funny Face, recreating some of his signature looks with Audrey Hepburn. That’s why watching Funny Face feels like flipping through a fashion magazine!
Audrey Hepburn Funny Face Dresses – Her Iconic 1950’s Style: “Nerdy Outfit”
Jo (Audrey Hepburn) is busy organizing books, when the book store is suddenly bombarded by droves of women and a photographer from the fashion magazine, Quality Magazine. They start tearing apart the bookshop to turn it into a fashion set.
Jo tries to stop them, so they lock her outside.
Audrey Hepburn’s character is wearing a black sweater, brown skirt, vest, and thick black leggings and burgundy loafers.
This is not your typical Audrey Hepburn’s style! It is mix-match of somewhat drab, but practical layers.
Audrey Hepburn Funny Face Dresses – Her Iconic 50’s Beatnik Style: Beige Trench Coat and Loafers
Quality Magazine is on the hunt for a woman to be the new face of the fashion magazine. This woman will model the entire haute couture collection in Paris.
Dick (Fred Astaire) shows the lead editor a picture of Jo (Audrey Hepburn) from the bookstore.
The editor replies, “Well, look at her! I think her face is perfectly funny. The Quality Woman must have grace… elegance… and pizazz.”
However, the lead fashion editor changes her mind. She then sets to work to transform the “ugly duckling” into a swan. And the rest, as they say, is history.
Audrey Hepburn accepts the modeling gig, because it means a free trip to Paris. Her dream is to meet an esteemed French philosophy professor.
For sightseeing in Paris, Audrey Hepburn’s character wears a black form-fitting sweater, black casual slacks, and black oxfords. She pairs this with a tan coat and matching gloves.
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Audrey Hepburn Fashion: 1950s Beatnik Outfit
The next day Dick (Fred Astaire) searches for Jo (Audrey Hepburn). He finds her in an underground bar.
She is eagerly discussing philosophy with a group of French men.
She tells him that at this intellectual cafe, people think freely and the girl can ask the guy to dance.
Why? Because dance is simply a form of release and expression.
She then announces that she feels like expressing herself now. She suddenly breaks into a crazy and somewhat comical modern dance.
Others in the cafe break into the spontaneous dance with her, while Fred Aistaire’s character stares on in horror.
Fun fact!
This scene is highlighting the 1950s new youth culture movement and beatnik fashion. This was a blend of the minimalist, intellectual, and bohemian aesthetic. Think monochromatic colors (especially black!), and form fitting silhouettes in functional pieces like fitted pants and turtlenecks.
The iconic Audrey Hepburn Funny Face Black Outfit is classic 1950s beatnik fashion. It includes a practical black polo neck sweater, casual slacks, and black oxfords, with no socks.
It’s no surprise that black cigarette pants are one of Audrey Hepburn’s signature styles!
Audrey Hepburn Funny Face Dresses – Her Iconic 1950’s Style in Givenchy’s Fashion Collection: White and Pink Evening Gown
Audrey Hepburn’s character Jo Stockton begins to model the French fashion collection.
Audrey Hepburn’s first outfit is a white and pink floor-length silk evening gown.
It has a pink blazer with a long train.
This is paired with white gloves, silver shoes, and a diamond tiara and diamond earrings.
Applause breaks out as she strolls down the catwalk.
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Audrey Hepburn 1950’s Style in Givenchy’s Fashion Collection: Black Circle Dress
Audrey Hepburn models the next pieces of the collection in some of the most iconic and romantic destinations in France.
For the first fashion shoot, she is whisked off to the Jardin des Tuileries, one of Paris’s most popular green spaces.
Audrey Hepburn’s outfit is a cap-sleeved black circle dress, with a fitted bodice, defined waist and full skirt.
This is paired with an adorable black hat, black pumps, and white gloves.
Audrey Hepburn Funny Face Fashion – Her Iconic 1950’s Style in Givenchy’s Fashion Collection: Gray Dress Suit
To set the mood for the next fashion shoot, Dick Avery (Fred Astaire) explains that her lover has just kissed her goodbye.
Her expression needs to show heartbreak, tragedy, and longing.
Dick leans in to kiss her, and steps back casually to shoot the picture. She struggles to control her emotions.
Dick tells the assistant to put fake tears in her eyes.
The assistant announces that she already has tears in her eyes. The oblivious Dick Avery says, “Good! You’re an actress too.”
Audrey Hepburn’s outfit is a stunning two-piece dress suit. This consists of a knee length tan colored dress, with a matching coat. It is paired with fur hat, dark brown pumps, and gloves.
She also has a fur coat thrown casually over her arm for extra pizzazz.
Fun fact!
For this shoot, the fashion photographer Avedon was recreating a famous train station photograph he shot for Harpers Bazaar. He got flack from his editor on it because, “Nobody cries in a Dior hat, Dick.” Avedon wouldn’t give up, fiercely passionate that this shot should be recreated for the fashion world. We’re so glad he did, as we love this look and emotion!
Audrey Hepburn Funny Face Dresses – Her Iconic 1950’s Style in Givenchy’s Fashion Collection: Floral Summer Dress
The fashion crew moves to a Paris flower shop for the next set.
Audrey Hepburn’s character wears a colorful summer dress, with a full circle skirt, and fitted bodice. This is paired with light yellow gloves.
To make this look complete, she adds an oversized straw hat and flowers.
This spring outfit is stunning. We love the sunny pop of color!
Audrey Hepburn Vintage Clothing – Her Iconic 1950’s Style in Givenchy’s Fashion Collection: White Evening Gown
The setting for the next photoshoot is the opera.
Dick Avery (Fred Astaire) tells her what mood to convey:
“Two opera seats. He didn’t show up. You’re furious! Now, when I say, “Go!” walk down with fire in your eyes, and murder on your mind!”
Audrey Hepburn’s character Jo captures the emotion and fire perfectly in her fashion shoot.
Audrey Hepburn’s outfit is another full skirted white circle dress. This is paired with white gloves, white low-heeled pumps.
Also notice the stunning elegant emerald coat and matching hair tie.
Audrey Hepburn’s 1950’s Fashion: Casual White Outfit
In the next scene they are sailing on a barge on the Seine river in Paris.
Fred Astaire’s character Dick gives her the next prompts for the photoshoot:
“Now today you’re just a simple little girl.
You live on the Seine River and you’re trying to catch a fish…. For your lunch!”
Audrey Hepburn’s character wears white slacks with a matching white blazer.
Notice the pink tie belt emphasizing her small waist. This matches the silk tie for her chic straw hat.
Her pink flats are in the same shade of pink.
We love Audrey Hepburn’s casual and feminine French chic outfit. This is so different from today’s outdoor recreation outfits!
Audrey Hepburn Funny Face Dresses – Her Iconic 1950’s Style in Givenchy’s Fashion Collection: Floral Ballgown
The next photoshoot takes place in front of a glorious collection of water fountains.
As Dick Avery starts to explain to Jo the scenario for the mood he wants to capture, she interrupts him.
She says:
“I know… I’m a princess at a ball, and the bird is really prince charming turned into a bird by a wicked sorcerer, and I’ve decided not to let it spoil the ball, but to go right on dancing, as if nothing had happened….”
Dick Avery, laughs, and says, “You’ve outgrown me!”
Audrey Hepburn’s character wears a stunning off the shoulder ball gown. It is fitted at the waist with a beautiful full skirt, patterned in white floral pattern. This is paired with flat silver shoes.
Audrey Hepburn Funny Face Red Dress
The next photo shoot takes place on the staircase of the Louvre Museum. This is the world’s most-visited museum.
This historic landmark is home to some of the most famous art pieces, including Mona Lisa and the Venus de Milo.
What we love about Audrey Hepburn’s style for this look is how elegant and sophisticated it is!
The fitted structure of her red gown contrasts with her matching red evening wrap, which is airy and flowy! Check out those long statement gloves.
And notice how her kitten high heels are also in red.
The iconic Audrey Hepburn Funny Face Red Dress is one of the most stunning of the Givenchy collection.
For this sophisticated look, her hair is styled up. And she is wearing a large statement necklace, with matching earrings.
Audrey Hepburn Funny Face Wedding Dress
The next photoshoot location is a beautiful historic chapel. This is in Northern France in the town of Coye-la-Forêt. It is next to a dreamy river and green forest.
Fred Astaire’s character Dick starts to explain to Jo Stockton (Audrey Hepburn):
“Alright, now this is your wedding day, the happiest day of your life… bells are ringing, flowers blooming, angels singing.
The man you love more than anyone else in the world is inside the church, waiting for you.”
The French chaplain walks out. When he sees the couple, he believes they are there to get married. He starts telling Audrey Hepburn how beautiful she is.
As Dick tries to get her into the mood for the photograph, he says:
“What’s the matter? ….This is your wedding day, this is the day you’ve been dreaming of all your life. You’re going to marry the man you love, the man who loves you….”
And then he leans in closer and closer, until they kiss.
And then they start singing and dancing above loving each other.
For more on Audrey Hepburn wedding dress style inspiration, you’ll love:
All 5 Iconic Audrey Hepburn Wedding Dress Styles – From Her Personal Life to Movies
Fo the Funny Face Wedding Dress, Audrey Hepburn is wearing a white retro wedding dress. It has a boat neckline, fitted bodice, and full circle skirt. Its glorious layers of white petticoat fall just below her knees.
Her two-tiered veil is pinned to her sculpted updo, with a bow. Her fashion accessories include white gloves, kitten pumps, and simple white pearl earrings.
Audrey Hepburn Funny Face Dresses – Her Iconic 1950’s Fashion: Casual Pant Outfit
The next day she meets with the fashion editor to prepare for the fashion magazine interviews.
Audrey Hepburn’s character Jo is wearing black slacks and a white button-up shirt. She pairs this with black socks and black loafers.
Her ponytail is accessorized with a simple white ribbon.
We love Audrey Hepburn’s style here. This is a great business casual look. It is chic and feminine!
Audrey Hepburn asks what sort of questions the press will ask. The fashion editor (the boss at the magazine, aka Maggie Prescott) tosses her a cloth to tie on her head and waist, so that they can look girlie and chat “as one lady to another.”
Audrey Hepburn Funny Face Dresses – Her Iconic 1950’s Fashion: Glamorous Blue Coat & Gown
As Audrey Hepburn waits for her ride to the fashion press interview, she hears that the famous philosopher is speaking at a nearby cafe.
Excited, she rushes off.
When she walks into the smoky cafe, the young handsome philosopher stops in mid-sentence to stare at her, and then pulls her aside to a table.
She exclaims, “I can’t believe it, I thought you’d be old! I mean… a philosopher, a professor, it all suggests age….”
Fred Astaire’s character busts into the cafe. He rudely tells the professor that he expected him to be a lot older. And then he rushes Audrey Hepburn out.
Dick and Jo start arguing backstage, as she is getting ready for the press interview. Dick warns her that the French professor is only interested in her as a woman.
Audrey Hepburn’s character wears a ballgown. This is paired with a shimmering floor length blue cloak. She is also wearing long matching blue gloves.
Their argument backstage escalates, and Jo rushes out in tears. The head editor and the fashion press are in a frenzy.
Audrey Hepburn’s character returns to visit the French professor. She finds out that Dick was right. The professor is only interested in kissing her, not discussing philosophy.
She escapes from the professor. And then rushes out to search for Dick.
Audrey Hepburn’s 1950’s Style: Givenchy Little Black Dress
The fashion show starts and Audrey Hepburn begins modeling a collection of stunning Givenchy gowns.
The first gown Audrey Hepburn models on the catwalk is a fitted little black dress. It is accessorized with a long white translucent scarf, white pillbox hat, and simple black pumps, and black gloves.
We love Audrey Hepburn’s style in this gown, as it is stunning in its simplicity and elegance.
Audrey Hepburn Funny Face Dresses – Her Iconic 1950’s Style: Givenchy Skirt Suit
The next outfit Audrey Hepburn models is a tailored skirt suit. It is paired with matching kitten heel pumps, white gloves, and a simple elegant hat.
We love Audrey Hepburn’s 1950s style for women’s workwear. It is dressy, yet practical.
Back behind stage, Audrey Hepburn’s character asks if they’ve found Dick (Fred Astaire) yet. She urges them to please hurry!
Audrey Hepburn Funny Face Dresses – Her Iconic 1950’s Style: Givenchy Evening Gown
The next outfit Audrey Hepburn wears is a stunning bright yellow evening gown. This is a fitted dress style with small trail. And of course she adds matching yellow kitten high heels.
She accessories this with long white gloves and a long flowing silver cloak. This floats behind her as she walks.
At the airport, Dick is about to board his plane to leave. And then he bumps into the French philosophy professor.
Overjoyed, Dick rushes back to find Audrey Hepburn’s character Jo. She returned to the historical chapel, and is wearing her stunning wedding dress.
Dick pulls her into his arms for a final love song and dance. It is the perfect blend of romance and fashion, set against the dreamy forest.
The May-December romance is a full go!
This post was all about Audrey Hepburn 1950s Fashion in Funny Face and its iconic Givenchy fashion and dresses.
What are your thoughts on the Audrey Hepburn 1950s fashion and style in Funny Face?
Do you prefer Audrey Hepburn’s glamorous haute couture outfits, like her red evening gown and stunning wedding dress? What do you think about her big skirts styles versus the fitted column styles?
Or are you a fan of her casual vintage clothing style, like her chic black slacks and loafers?
Does this film remind you a bit of the modern day Devil Wears Prada?
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Hey you guys, thank you for your very informative piece on Audrey Hepburn in Funny Face. I landed on your website after clicking on a Google image of her, and I’m glad I did. Keep up the good work!
Thank you, Monique! Glad you’re enjoying the content. 🙂