At the 2025 Golden Globes in January, there was an outpouring of Old Hollywood glamour-inspired looks on the red carpet. From Zendaya’s chin-length curled bob to Ariana Grande’s empire-waisted Audrey Hepburn chic, the Golden Age of Hollywood served as major inspiration for several style choices. Pulling off an Old Hollywood glamour look is not easy, but some stylists have truly nailed down the fashion as of late.
The Golden Age of Hollywood, which took place roughly between the 1930s and 60s, is synonymous with the Old Hollywood glamour aesthetic. Notable actresses of the time include household names like Marilyn Monroe, Audrey Hepburn and Judy Garland. These actresses were not only icons on the silver screen, but also inspired many luxury high fashion designers around the world with their elegance and talent.
Hubert de Givenchy specifically stated that Audrey Hepburn was his major inspiration and muse in some of the biggest years of his career in the 1950s and 60s. Her iconic floor-length black satin gown worn in “Breakfast at Tiffany’s” was designed by Givenchy, who also styled her for the entire film.
Old Hollywood glamour is timeless. It is the picture of elegance and grace, with a hint of luxury. It isn’t just any high fashion sequin gown. Dresses with cinched waists and A-line skirts were the trending silhouettes of Hollywood’s Golden Age. They were often paired with sweetheart necklines or v-necks for a touch of femininity. Embellishments like sequins, beading or lace also made their way into many designs, characterizing the intricacy of the work.
Old Hollywood glamour left a legacy too great to be captured by just a single dress. The aesthetic influences high fashion design and red carpet style to this day. Edith Head, a notable fashion figure of the time, won eight Academy Awards for her work in costume design and is said by many to be responsible for the birth of Old Hollywood glamour. Feminine silhouettes, regency, luxurious fabrics, ornate details — these are all characteristics that mark an Old Hollywood Glamour look. And nobody did it better than Edith Head.
A prime example of a star channeling Old Hollywood glamour in a way that properly pays tribute was Sabrina Carpenter at the 2024 Video Music Awards. She wore a sparkling silver vintage Bob Mackie gown with an embroidered neckline. Notice all the elements on the dress that characterize a design from the Golden Age of Hollywood. Gorgeously paired with big, bouncy curls and red lipstick, Carpenter’s stylist, Jared Ellner, was able to pull off one of his best vintage looks yet.
More and more stars are adhering to Old Hollywood trends on the red carpet and in their personal style. In 2025, there may be a rise in popularity for the aesthetic, which VALLEY would welcome happily. Mesmerizing and ageless, Old Hollywood Glamour never disappoints.
What’s your favorite Old Hollywood Glamour fashion look? Let us know on our Instagram @VALLEYmag!
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