What is a fashion icon? Who is a fashion icon? It’s a subjective idea, really, and has stirred up a great deal of argument and debate among critics and fashion historians.

In modern times we have Lady Gaga whose off-the-wall, controversial outfits have caused quite a frenzy in the fashion world. Is she a fashion icon? Some would say, “Yes!” while others would disagree. Her most outrageous outfit came just recently with the meat dress she wore at the Video Music Awards. We’ll give her credit for her creative ideas and the ability to grab entertainment headlines on a weekly basis - and perhaps she inspires people to take fashion risks, but is she indeed a true fashion icon?

On the other side of the spectrum there are women like Audrey Hepburn or Grace Kelly whose names are often and still, to this day, brought up in the same sentence as “fashion icons”. These women evoked grace and a sense of style that still inspire modern fashion designers. Audrey Hepburn or Grace Kelly didn’t need to wear crazy outfits to attract attention. Their sense of presence was enough. All they had to wear were pearls, stylish sunglasses, and a simple dress.

Perhaps I’m biased because my closet is filled with classic styles and I’m sure there are thousands of people who would disagree with me. As stated earlier, the term fashion icon is subjective with many different definitions.

Granted, Audrey Hepburn and Grace Kelly come from a different time than Lady Gaga, when fashion was a bit more “tame” than it is nowadays. However, with TV shows like Mad Men growing in popularity, we are seeing the reemergence of classic fashion. Fashion designers like Emilio & Coco are coming out with collections that represent this style of fashion.

Emilio & Coco full circle polka dot dress available at their eboutique and select boutiques around the world.

So, let’s go back to this notion of whether or not a particular person is a fashion icon. There isn’t a concrete definition for it, but you can’t deny that Audrey Hepburn and Grace Kelly’s sense of style and influence has stood the test of time. As for Lady Gaga, it still remains to be seen. Perhaps “artist” or someone who knows how to use her body to express herself is a better description for her.

If a fashion icon is someone who influences style and design, who do you think would be put in this category?

by Simone Lee