When Audrey Hepburn’s iconic Breakfast at Tiffany’s cocktail dress was bought in an auction for an incredible £410,000, the fashion world was rife with speculation that it was none other than Victoria Beckham who had snapped it up. After all, the self-confessed Audrey aficionada obviously takes style inspiration from the actress with her neat chignons (well, pre the Shag hair cut anyway…) and chic ensembles and the size 6 Hubert de Givenchy gown would fit her like a (long black) glove.
And by the look of it, VB is about to open her wallet again for the latest auction of Audrey Hepburn memorabilia. She has pre-ordered the lot catalogue featuring priceless items from Ms Hepburn’s wardrobe which is all going under the hammer on 8th December.
And we have to say, as if you hadn’t already guessed, the selection is pretty spectacular. Givenchy makes a strong appearance, which isn’t surprising considering Hubert dressed his friend for the greater part of her career. Imagine Givenchy hats, silk coats, evening gowns and even the lace cocktail dress Audrey wore in How to Steal a Million in 1966. Also up for grabs are the Mark Cross striped cotton top she wore in War and Peace in 1956, as well as letters, photographs and accessories. But want to hear the lots we’re most super duper excited about? Sure you do. The insanely stunning Givenchy haute couture white ball gown, worn by Audrey in the opera scene of Love in the Afternoon in 1956. Apparently she passed it onto her friend who had just given birth with a note attached saying it would remind her ‘what it was like to have a waistline again’. Love it! And then finally one of the highest priced pieces for sale; the ivory satin bridal gown designed for Audrey for her (eventually called-off) marriage to James Hanson in 1952, which has a maximum estimate of £12,000 – although we reckon that’s not too bad for an irreplaceable piece of vintage fashion, non?
To order an auction catalogue, contact the auction house on info@kerrytaylorauctions.com or by calling 020 8676 4600.
