Fashion is an ever-evolving industry, influenced by a variety of factors including cultural trends, historical events, and, of course, celebrities. Throughout history, there have been many celebrities who have significantly influenced fashion and fashion trends.
These celebrities have left an indelible mark on fashion history and continue to inspire new generations of fashion enthusiasts. From Audrey Hepburn’s timeless elegance to Rihanna’s fearless approach to fashion, the following seven celebrities have all changed the fashion industry in one way or another.
1. Audrey Hepburn
Audrey Hepburn was a Hollywood icon famous for her fashion sense and timeless beauty. Her role in the 1953 film “Roman Holiday” helped to establish her as a fashion icon, and her iconic black dress in the 1961 film “Breakfast at Tiffany’s” has become a fashion staple.
Hepburn’s style was elegant and classic, and she often favored simple outfits with clean lines and a minimal aesthetic. Her influence on fashion can still be seen today in the popularity of the “Audrey Hepburn look,” which includes tailored trousers, simple shifts, and oversized sunglasses.
2. Madonna
A singer, songwriter, and actress who gained immense fame beginning in the 1980s, Madonna pushed the boundaries of fashion for decades with her risqué and provocative looks which often sent media publications into an excited frenzy.
From her signature cone bra to her rebellious street style, Madonna changed the way many people thought about fashion. Her influence is still felt in modern-day fashion trends, with her iconic looks often being imitated by other celebrities, some of whom are too young to even realize it.
3. Jackie Kennedy
Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis, known as Jackie Kennedy, was the epitome of classic American style, known for her sophisticated fashion sense and her preference for classic, chic pieces. She was often seen wearing elegant, tailored suits, and her signature pillbox hats became iconic during her time at the White House.
Kennedy was also well-known for her love of pearls, wearing them both on and off the red carpet. Her influence on fashion can still be seen today in the popularity of classic and contemporary American styles, and the continued use of pearls as a fashion accessory.
4. Marilyn Monroe
Marilyn Monroe was one of the first celebrities to have a major impact on global fashion trends. As beautiful as she was talented, her multifaceted career as an actress, model, and singer broke conventions and led to worldwide fame in the 1950s.
With her iconic blonde hair, Monroe redefined what was considered stylish at the time. Thanks to her brave influence, the era of tight-fitting clothing with high cuts, bright colors, and bold accessories became a fashion norm.
5. Elvis Presley
Elvis Presley was a music and cultural icon who had a significant impact on fashion, particularly in the 1950s and 1960s. His trademark look, which included a slicked-back hairstyle, drainpipe pants, and high-collared shirts, helped to define the fashion of the era.
Elvis’s style was heavily influenced by the rock ‘n’ roll culture of the time, and helped to popularize the leather jacket and blue suede shoes. His influence on fashion can still be seen today in the popularity of vintage and retro styles, as well as in the continued use of leather jackets and drainpipe pants.
6. Michael Jackson
Aside from his prodigious musical talent, pop culture icon Michael Jackson had a distinct fashion style that grew in popularity from the 1980s. His style was characterized by his extravagant costumes, which often featured bright colors, sequins, and glitter.
Jackson’s influence on fashion can still be seen today in the popularity of flashy, bold styles, as well as the widespread use of glitter and sequins. He was also known for his love of fedoras and gloves, which have since become iconic accessories associated with his image.
7. Rihanna
Rihanna is a contemporary artist and fashion icon whose style has led to a shift in perspective on fashion in recent years. Her unique style is defined by a bold and fearless approach to clothing and accessories, which often involves mixing different styles, textures, and patterns.
It’s safe to say that Rihanna has been a trailblazer in the fashion industry, breaking down barriers and pushing boundaries with her choice of clothing. She has also launched several successful fashion lines, including her lingerie line, Savage X Fenty, which promotes inclusivity and diversity.