(Photo courtesy of Breakfast at Tiffany's)
More than half a century has passed since Audrey Hepburn's portrayal of Holly Golightly made cinematic history. A household staple for generations, Oscar-winning Breakfast at Tiffany’s forever reshaped fashion history with its elegant aesthetic, becoming the gold standard for chic, opulence, and Hollywood glamour.
Slip into your best little black dress and grab a Danish as we take a classy journey through the enduring legacy of Breakfast at Tiffany’s.
Socialite and Writer Next Door
(Photo courtesy of Classic Critics Corner)
Directed by Blake Edwards and penned by George Axelrod, Breakfast at Tiffany's is a 1961 romantic comedy based on Truman Capote's 1958 novella.
The cinematic hit unfolds in the heart of New York’s Upper East Side and follows the story of Holly Golightly, a glamorous socialite who flits between wild parties and covert trips to Sing Sing. She believes she's experienced it all — until life takes an unexpected turn.
The challenge of forging her identity pales in comparison to the surprise Holly feels when a writer named Paul Varjak moves in next door. Paul, who grapples with his own challenges, is still struck by Holly's beauty and her quirky personality. As they share adventures and laughter, she enjoys his presence but still questions whether his feelings for her are genuine.
Dreamy Morning at Tiffany's Door
(Photo courtesy of Pinterest)
Always dressed to the nines, Audrey Hepburn's Holly Golightly brought even greater fame to the longstanding legacy of Tiffany & Co. The timeless classic became the first film ever shot at Tiffany’s flagship store on Fifth Avenue and Fifty-Seventh Street, fulfilling director Blake Edwards' vision from the start.
The film’s opening is one of the most iconic in Hollywood history. It begins with a serene, almost eerie view of an empty New York City in the early morning light. The striking image of a lone yellow NYC cab dashing down Fifth Avenue is memorable in itself. More mesmerizing, though, is when this cab stops in front of Tiffany’s, and Holly Golightly steps out.
Breakfast at Tiffany's Opening Scene - HQ
Clad in her fancy Givenchy little black dress, matching black gloves (affectionately dubbed “Audrey style” by fans), and concealed behind oversized sunglasses, the carefree society girl appears weary from a night's revelries.
As she recharges with coffee and a Danish, Holly gazes into Tiffany’s dazzling display window, letting viewers admire the exquisite jewels while she enjoys her breakfast.
The opening sequence's most captivating shot features a reverse view of the street, capturing Golightly in a moment of deep reflection by the window, accompanied by the iconic melodies of "Moon River."
How Holly Became a Fashion Trendsetter Without Trying
(Photo courtesy of Pinterest)
Hollywood has long used fashion as a powerful storytelling tool, but Holly Golightly's ascent as a trendsetter was not about following trends; it was about setting them.
Golightly's fashion choices in Breakfast at Tiffany's are a direct expression of her personality — wild, spontaneous, and utterly unique. Her unique style reflects her journey toward a self-made, forward-thinking life, shaping the narrative from start to finish.
Doe-eyed Golightly's influence as a trendsetter became undeniable after the film’s release. The Breakfast at Tiffany’s phenomenon sent waves of excited fans into the boutique, all longing to step into the world the movie so cleverly romanticized.
(Photo courtesy of Tiffany & Co.)
The film’s tremendous success and lasting impact on pop culture solidified Tiffany & Co. as a symbol of status and luxury. Yet, the brand’s story began long before this rom-com blockbuster lit up the silver screen.
The origins of Tiffany & Co. trace back to the 1830s, a period of rapid expansion and boundless opportunities in New York City. In 1837, fueled by ambition and a modest $1,000 loan from his father, 25-year-old Charles Lewis Tiffany and his partner John B. Young ventured into the business world by opening a “stationery and fancy goods” store, setting the stage for what would become a legendary name in luxury.
Tiffany & Co.: Defining Luxury for Almost 200 Years
(Photo courtesy of Tiffany & Co.)
While Audrey Hepburn's memorable role helped catapult Tiffany to a higher level of renown, the house has long defined itself through its exceptional jewelry offerings. Tiffany & Co. has stood as a beacon of sophistication and elegance since the 1800s, crafting never-seen-before pieces that transcend fleeting trends.
The brand’s philosophy of “everyday luxury” ensures that the most extravagant pieces are suitable for daily enjoyment, whether it's a beautifully crafted engagement ring, a bold statement necklace, or a stack of stunning bracelets.
Tiffany & Co. has spent nearly two centuries building a globally acclaimed reputation, justifying the premium price tags attached to each meticulously designed piece. Indeed, these creations are worth every penny for the quality and craftsmanship they offer, but a savvy alternative is opting for second-hand Tiffany & Co. jewelry.
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ZenLuxe gives luxury seekers the golden ticket to an incredible selection of authentic preloved jewelry from the world’s top fashion houses at surprisingly affordable prices.
Here’s how it works: you type in the name of your dream jewelry, browse through dozens of options, add them to your cart, and place your order. Soon enough, your treasures will be carefully packaged and delivered right to your doorstep. Luxury for all? That’s the new standard!
About The Writer
Meet Mariam — a fashion writer who lives and breathes all things vogue and glamour. For her, the most therapeutic aspect of fashion goes beyond simply shopping for the latest styles that appear in stores; it’s fully experiencing this glamorous world from the little details to the big moments (there's nothing quite like the thrill of flipping through a sleek fashion magazine, is there?).