From Audrey Hepburn to Kate Moss, Jane Birkin, Lady Di, and Rihanna, every era has its fashion icon. Discover the greatest ones!

Fashion is a way of living and thinking that has changed over the decades, embodying social transformations and cultural movements. Each era has seen the emergence of striking trends and mosaics of styles that tell their own story. To embody this era and the essence of a period through its unique style, many personalities, synonymous with elegance, originality, and glamour, have made their mark in fashion icons. With their iconic looks and remarkable personalities, these women have left their mark on generations and continue to capture the collective imagination. From Marilyn Monroe à Rihanna, including Jane Birkin and Coco Chanel, Let's discover the influence and style of these icons.

How can a personality stand out as a fashion icon? A fashion icon is much more than just a benchmark in clothing. It doesn't follow fashion, it creates it by offering a true visual identity. That's why it plays such an essential role in this industry.

This figure, with his iconic style, confidence, and originality, has stood the test of time and left a timeless legacy that continues to influence generations, from designers to the general public. 

Each fashion icon has an impact that is felt not only in the world of haute couture, but also in ready-to-wear and streetwear. It has the power to define standards of style and beauty. Its influence extends beyond fashion to become a symbol of innovation and an emblem that challenges social conventions. 

The fashion icons have a signature piece that is naturally associated with their name. Coco Chanel, Audrey Hepburn, Kate Moss... Each of these icons has their own stylistic and cultural heritage. In order to decipher the codes of fashion and the influence of these personalities, the’ISAL PARIS fashion school offers enriching training courses that enable students to develop a genuine understanding of fashion.

From Audrey Hepburn to Marilyn Monroe and Jackie Kennedy, every era has its fashion icon. Which fashion icons have revolutionized women's fashion? 

1) Coco Chanel Coco Chanel revolutionized the fashion industry by offering sophisticated, comfortable outfits with timeless elegance. Originally from Paris, she captured the essence of Parisian chic and transformed it into an iconic brand. One of her most famous creations is undoubtedly the little black dress, which has become a wardrobe staple. The tweed suit Chanel with its impeccable cut and clean lines also embodies French refinement. Finally, how can we talk about the Chanel House without mentioning the two-tone beige and black ballerina flats? Contemporary designers and Karl Lagerfeld have continued to reinterpret and revisit these classics, perpetuating Coco's legacy.

2) Marilyn Monroe Marilyn Monroe is a Hollywood legend. This actress, whose career took off in the 1950s, became the ultimate icon of fashion and pop culture. She captivated the entire world and inspired generations of women with her glamorous style, sensuality, and dazzling beauty. Her blonde curls became her signature, adding a touch of elegance to her irresistible allure. When we think of Marilyn, we have the image of her white dress fluttering above a subway grate in the film “The Seven Year Itch,” a symbol of innocence and seduction. Her knit sweater, which she wore in the film “The Millionaire,” has also become iconic. The French brand Gérard Darel has also bought back the sweater in order to reissue it for the fall-winter 2010-2011 season.

3) Audrey Hepburn Audrey Hepburn is one of the most iconic fashion icons in history. Her natural grace and undeniable charm made her a muse for the designers of her time, including Hubert de Givenchy. Today, she continues to inspire women around the world with her minimalist yet sophisticated style. Her wardrobe of chic basics has become a benchmark for those seeking a timeless and elegant look. One of her most iconic outfits is, of course, the black dress paired with a turtleneck, which she wore in the film “Breakfast at Tiffany's”. Her chic ballerina looks with tulle skirts and high-waisted capri pants also made a lasting impression. Finally, the timeless, neat, and elegant bun has become a true signature for the actress.

4) Jackie Kennedy Jackie Kennedy is undoubtedly the most fashionable, chic, and elegant first lady in history. An icon of preppy look, She made her mark on the 1960s with iconic outfits such as her tailored suits, silk dresses, her ever-present trench coat, and her famous oversized sunglasses. Her upper-class style continues to be a source of inspiration for designers around the world.

5) Jane Birkin : actress, singer, and muse of Serge Gainsbourg, Jane Birkin has inspired many women to adopt a less conventional and more relaxed look. She is the embodiment of French bohemian chic style. Her wardrobe consists of comfortable, loose-fitting pieces made from natural materials, such as cotton shirts, light dresses, and flared jeans. Across the Atlantic, Jane is the icon of baby-doll fashion, as illustrated by the it bag from the Hermès House to which she gave her name: the Birkin. She is also famous for popularizing the A-line dress and the wicker basket as a fashion accessory.

6) Princess Diana : Princess Diana left behind an irreplaceable legacy that continues to influence our wardrobes today and even our screens with the broadcast of the series The Crown. An essential fashion icon, here are her greatest classics: the revenge dress, the large collar, the university sweatshirt, the bag Lady Dior, Bermuda shorts, kitten heels, and polka dot prints. 

The 2000s also have their fashion icons, some of whom are inspired by icons of the 1960s. So, what are our Today's icons? 

1) Britney Spears : The pop star is undoubtedly one of the iconic figures of the 2000s. With her low-rise pants, denim jacket, pleated skirt, and crop top, she displayed a style that reflected the innocence of that era. Today, the trend Y2K (abbreviation meaning “2000s”) draws on the dress codes of the singer to suggest looks retrofuturists. 

2) Sarah Jessica Parker : The actress who rose to fame in the series Sex and the City has been inspired over the years by her character's wardrobe, making the style “Carrie Bradshaw”a reality. The small-screen star has proven her sense of style with a touch of eccentricity, on red carpets, in the streets of Manhattan, and even at Fashion Week. We particularly remember her evening dresses worn at Golden Globes or during Met Gala.

3) Kate Moss : discovered at the age of 14 by a modeling agency, Kate Moss experienced a meteoric rise at the very beginning of her career. She modeled for Galliano at the age of 15 and became the face of the brand Calvin Klein. In 1995, she won the Fashion Personality of the Year award and the following year she won the Model of the Year award. Her trademark is her natural, casual look, in contrast to the glamour of the time. Today, she is less present on the catwalks, Kate Moss remains a recurring cover girl for major magazines, including Vogue Paris.

4) Madonna : a symbol of strength and provocation, Madonna uses fashion as an extension of her artistic identity. Nicknamed the “Queen of Pop”She is recognized as one of the most influential figures in entertainment. Her provocative and daring style stands out. One example that comes to mind is her conical corsets designed by Jean Paul Gaultier, her crucifix jewelry, and her layered tulle skirts.

5) Rihanna : singer, actress, and fashion designer with her brand Fenty, Rihanna has become a true modern fashionista. Whether on stage or on the street, she experiments with new trends and creates looks that capture everyone's attention. Her chic, streetwear style allows her to mix casual pieces with sophisticated elements, striking a balance between comfort and glamour. 

6) Kate Middleton : The Princess of Wales is a true ambassador for the British fashion. The style of the Queen Elizabeth II to her brightly colored skirts, coats, and hats, but Kate Middleton is also a big fan of colorful clothing. Her chic and trendy looks give her the image of a modern woman. She influences brands and women around the world, to such an extent that the styles she wears often sell out.

7) Gigi Hadid: American model Gigi Hadid is a modern fashion icon thanks to her prolific career, influential collaborations with renowned brands, and strong media presence. Her unique style, combining elegance and modernity, as well as her commitment to the fashion industry, reinforce her status as a contemporary icon.

The influence of fashion icons continues to be present in our modern society. Their legacy lives on and inspires today's designers. So, who will be our future fashion icons?