Dress like a movie star

All About You online 06.03.2008

This season is all about old-school glamour with a modern twist. Be inspired by the film-star style of these fashion icons. By Alyson Walsh

Images of Anita Ekberg, Jane Birkin, Katherine Hepburn and Catherine Deneuve

Enough of the contemporary film star excess, we've decided to rewind for some original style inspiration. As our star attraction, we present five glamorous fashion icons whose looks never fade.

Katharine Hepburn

We only had room for one Hepburn. Sorry Audrey, you may be Victoria Beckham's idol but we're sticking with Katharine. Widely known for her elegant androgynous style, though not averse to a slinky Adrian gown, Hepburn made a lasting impact by adding glamour to mannish clothing. We love her in a simple shirt, wide leg trousers, and brogues, an easy summer look that's wearable and cool.

Get Katharine's look
For an updated version of Hepburn's timeless ensemble, try a striped cotton shirt, stylish wide pants and fine knit cardigan. Bring the look bang up-to-date with a pair of patent platform shoes. Model wearing wide leg trousers and a blazer
Pictured: Paul Smith Spring/Summer 2008

On the catwalk
For the masculine look, check out Stella McCartney, Paul Smith and Zac Posen.

Jane Birkin

Iconic status is well and truly achieved when Hermes names a covetable leather bag after you. Actress Jane Birkin (widely known for her relationship with Serge Gainsbourg and the risqué song 'Je t'aime...moi non plus') has the enduring sex appeal every woman longs for even more than a Hermes bag. Forty years after her cinematic debut, the English-born-Francophile continues to look just as good off screen as on it.

Get Jane's look
Forget Birkin the '60s dolly bird in Antonioni's cult movie 'Blow Up', leave the Pop Art dress and lime green tights to the V&A costume department, and choose classic Parisienne chic instead. A fitted black reefer jacket and slim pants flatter any figure, and give a seriously stylish Left-Bank look. Model on a catwalk wearing skinny trousers and pea coat
Pictured: Aquascutum Spring/Summer 2008

On the catwalk
For swinging '60s style, check out Chloe, Aquascutum and Balenciaga.

Catherine Deneuve

Its view of female sexuality maybe somewhat outdated but Bunuel's 1967 'Belle de Jour' is a fashion masterpiece. Starring the enigmatic Catherine Deneuve, an array of straight-off-the-catwalk, beautifully tailored Yves Saint Laurent outfits and timeless Roger Vivier pumps. The one-time face of Chanel No5 and an inspiration for the Marianne (the symbol of the French Republic - Deneuve appeared on bank notes for over 15 years), she has eternal charm and class.

Get Catherine's look
A classic figure flattering shift dress in camel, red or black is the perfect addition to every woman's wardrobe. Team with a cropped jacket and sexy heels for understated chic - retro underwear and big hair optional.

On the catwalk
For fabulous frocks, check out Lanvin, Burberry and Diane von Furstenburg.

Anita Ekberg
PIctured: Chanel Spring Summer 2008

It's not surprising that Fellini's 'La Dolce Vita' won the 1962 Oscar for Best Costume Design. Anita Ekberg in a show-stopping black dress and Anouk Aimee's low-key elegance captured a decadent urban attitude. The black and white film that introduced the concept of celebrity worship - and invented the word 'paparazzo' - turned sunglasses into a perennial accessory.

The monochrome trend is big news for spring - so, no need to frolic in a fountain, just make a splash with a touch of Roman élan.

Get Anita's look
A full-length evening gown is fine when movie star travel is an option. If like the rest of us, you rely on public transport, take an element of the look - a monochrome tailored outfit or sexy off-the-shoulder dress - for an instant style upgrade. Just don't forget the over-sized sunglasses.

On the catwalk
For 'La Dolce Vita' style, check out Dolce & Gabbana, Alexander McQueen and Chanel.

Jean Seberg

Whilst the logo T-shirt, slim trousers and ballet pumps may put you in mind of Kate Moss, fashion icon, Jean Seberg, set the template. Her highly influential style is easy-to-wear and elegant, and as La Moss proves, the 'Breathless (A Bout de Souffle)' star's wardrobe and iconographic image is as relevant today as it was in 1959. Now that's what we call staying power.

Get the look
If an 'International Herald Tribune' T-shirt proves hard to find, channel Jean Seberg style in a dogtooth check trench, slim pants and flat pumps. Guaranteed to hit the headlines.

On the catwalk
For retro elegance check out Fendi, Prada and Balenciaga.