Hello, Darling! Here, you will learn exactly how to create the best Audrey Hepburn Breakfast at Tiffany’s costume with the iconic black dress she wore as Holly Golightly in the movie.
I am an Audrey Hepburn “super fan.” I have read all the Audrey Hepburn books. I wore an Audrey Hepburn-inspired wedding dress, and I maintain an Audrey Hepburn-themed wardrobe. And Breakfast at Tiffany’s is both one of my favorite books and movies of all time.
A few years ago, I wore the Audrey Hepburn sleep mask costume from Breakfast at Tiffany’s, but this post offers even more Breakfast at Tiffany’s costume ideas for the black dress that remains one of the most famous outfits of all time decades later.
Below are my top picks for your Breakfast at Tiffany’s Halloween costume from Amazon for quick and easy shopping. But, because these styles are so classic, I also recommend some of my personal favorite Audrey Hepburn costume components that can stay in your closet and be worn over and over again for the long term.
Audrey Hepburn Breakfast at Tiffany’s Costume
Breakfast at Tiffany’s Book by Truman Capote
“‘It’s like Tiffany’s,’ she said. […] ‘It calms me down right away, the quietness and the proud look of it; nothing very bad could happen to you there, not with those kind men in their nice suits, and that lovely smell of silver and alligator wallets. If I could find a real-life place that made me feel like Tiffany’s, then I’d buy some furniture and give the cat a name.’”
Since this is a book blog, naturally, I first recommend that you carry a Breakfast at Tiffany’s book with your Holly Golightly Halloween costume.
As mentioned, it’s one of my favorite books of all time, and it’s also one of my favorite audiobooks of all time. It’s very short, so if you haven’t read it yet, what are you waiting for?! I recommend the Audible version of Breakfast at Tiffany’s read by Michael C. Hall (from Dexter). It’s mesmerizing and unforgettable.
Black Dress
At the heart of this costume is “the” Breakfast at Tiffany’s dress. The original was a Givenchy sheath dress with beautiful shoulder cutout details in the back.
The above black dress matches the aesthetic, but if you want a Breakfast at Tiffany’s fancy dress you can re-wear again and again, I recommend any classic black sheath dress. I tend to find the best options for this simple style at J.Crew Factory.
Black Heels
You can DIY this costume with ANY low-heeled black pumps, including those you may already own. Here, I linked up the exact Cole Haan heels I wear. They cost more than a costume shoe, but they are incredibly well made to last and be comfortable to wear.
Black Oversized Sunglasses
Holly Golightly also made black oversized sunglasses famous, and the oversized sunglasses linked match the shape of Holly’s really well at a cost-effective price point.
But, if you want something more high-end and glamorous for the long term, try Rayban’s Jackie O sunglasses (inspired by another style icon of the same generation!).
Pearl Necklace
Holly Golightly accessorized her famous black dress with a multi-stand pearl choker accentuated with a diamond brooch, just like the one above.
However, if you want a similar style that’s more of an everyday piece versus a fancy piece of costume jewelry, I own and recommend this Kiel James Patrick pearl necklace, which has a bit more of a nautical flare but still matches the overall look well.
Hair Comb
Technically, Holly Golightly decorated her updo with a small studded hair comb, not a tiara, but either will work. I have linked a similar option here.
Black Cigarette Holder
A long black cigarette holder is more of an optional accessory for this costume, but if you really want one, the above is a great option.
Long Black Gloves
Lastly, long black gloves complete this glamorous Audrey Hepburn Breakfast at Tiffany’s costume. I wouldn’t skip them, as they really make this outfit “pop” as an iconic costume.
TIP
- If you need all these components for this Breakfast at Tiffany’s outfit but don’t want to purchase all the costume accessories separately, you can potentially save money by buying a Holly Golightly accessory set.
Conclusion
This Holly Golightly pays tribute to the timeless elegance of the star of Breakfast at Tiffany’s. With every pearl necklace and tiara tilt, you’re not just wearing an outfit, but celebrating the allure and sophistication of an iconic film character. Whether for a glamorous event or a themed party, stepping into Holly’s world always feels enchantingly classic.
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Hello Jules,
Thank you for sharing this. What heel height would you recommend, please? Would 5 cm be too high for this look?
No, I don’t think so. Audrey was known for flats and lower heels, so while you can absolutely wear any height, I’d say anywhere from a small kitten heel to 2.5 inches (about 6.5 cm) would work the best. Have fun!!
@Jules Buono,
Thank you. Now I have a reason to buy another pair of shoes!