When Audrey soft-launched the saree in the West
Audrey Hepburn, the epitome of elegance and charm, is remembered worldwide for her iconic roles and enduring style. However, few know that the British Hollywood star had intriguing, albeit quiet, connections with India.
In Breakfast at Tiffany’s (1961), Hepburn’s character Holly Golightly was originally dressed in classic New York chic. However, in promotional images, photo shoots, and a party sequence, Hepburn was famously photographed in a stunning saree. Audrey Hepburn’s costume in the film was designed by the legendary French fashion designer, Hubert de Givenchy. Draped in a saree-style ensemble, which was actually a bedsheet, she looked effortlessly stunning, accessorized with statement stone stud earrings and an elegant high bun.
The image remains striking—not just for the graceful silhouette, but for what it symbolized: the merging of Western sophistication with Eastern elegance. At a time when Indian fashion had not yet made its way into mainstream Western media, Hepburn helped cast a quiet spotlight on the beauty of the saree, making it a part of global style consciousness.
Audrey and PM Nehru
In another often-overlooked moment from Breakfast at Tiffany’s, Audrey Hepburn’s iconic character, Holly Golightly, casually mentions a list of men she’d like to date. Among the men is India’s first Prime Minister, Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru. The mention is brief, but striking, reflecting the global stature Nehru held at the time, admired not just for his political leadership, but also for his intellect and dignified charm. The scene has since become a quirky pop-cultural footnote linking two iconic figures of the 20th century in an unexpected way.
All about good and goodwill
Hepburn served as a UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador, dedicating much of her later life to helping children in need. She traveled to Bangladesh via Delhi and Calcutta to observe international relief efforts following the creation of Bangladesh. Adding to her India connect, in 1992, Hepburn presented the renowned Indian filmmaker Satyajit Ray with an Honorary Oscar for his cinematic achievements.
The iconic little black dress worn by Hepburn in Breakfast at Tiffany’s, designed by Givenchy, was auctioned in 2007 to raise money for building schools in India. The proceeds were donated to the City of Joy Aid foundation. One of these schools was opened in Bishnupur, West Bengal.
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