How Breakfast at Tiffany’s Immortalized the Little Black Dress
By: Daphne Zhu
A croissant in one hand and a coffee cup in the other, she peers into the iconic Tiffany & Co. storefront. Dressed in a sleek black dress adorned with layers of pearls and oversized sunglasses, this scene—played by Audrey Hepburn in Breakfast at Tiffany’s—marries glamour and independence. The film, in which she effortlessly navigates the glitz and glam of Manhattan's high society, has become inextricably linked with its iconic fashion.
The Origin of The Little Black Dress
The little black dress has its origins in the 1920s, primarily attributed to Coco Chanel. Chanel introduced the concept of the LBD as a versatile, affordable, and universally flattering garment that every woman could wear. Prior to this, black was often associated with mourning attire, and it was uncommon for women to wear black dresses outside of solemn events.
By the 1960s, the LBD had become synonymous with chic minimalism. Breakfast at Tiffany’s, premiered in 1961, only solidified its cultural impact. Costume designer Hubert de Givenchy created a version of the LBD for Hepburn’s character: a simple yet elegant floor-length dress with a sleeveless cut.
The Little Black Dress in Breakfast at Tiffany’s
As the movie debuted Audrey Hepburn as Holly Golightly, what she wore became part of her character. Hepburn’s portrayal of Holly dressed in the LBD while gazing into the Tiffany & Co. store window remains one of cinema's most memorable images. This look became emblematic of urban glamour: a style that was both elusive yet accessible.
The impact of the LBD in the film was significant not only because of the garment itself but also because of what it symbolized. Holly embodied independence, sophistication, and mystery—and women saw the dress as an accessible means to channel her allure. Holly was a free-spirited New York socialite, often seen in glamorous attire and exuding an air of mystery. The dress became a way for women to glimpse into that feeling, even if their lives didn’t always resemble Holly’s.
The Lasting Legacy of the Little Black Dress
The influence of the LBD from Breakfast at Tiffany's endured in contemporary fashion. What makes the LBD unique is its adaptability: it can be dressed up or down, worn for day or night, and was designed to be universally flattering. Fashion houses continue to reinterpret and modernize the LBD, such as in Chanel’s Spring 2023 collection and Givenchy FW 2023. The LBD has also been worn by characters during pivotal moments in films, symbolizing significant transformations. In The Devil Wears Prada (2006), Anne Hathaway’s character, Andy, pairs a black dress with a statement necklace, marking her evolution from an awkward assistant to a confident, stylish figure in the fashion industry. Similarly, in La La Land (2016), Emma Stone’s character, Mia, dons an LBD during a key dinner date, reflecting her transition into the glamorous world of Hollywood.
Immortalized over 60 years ago by Audrey Hepburn and Givenchy on the silver screen, today, it remains an essential piece in women’s wardrobes worldwide — a testament to its legacy as a symbol of confidence, independence, and timeless elegance.