Katharine Hepburn relished wearing slacks at a time when most women would never consider such a clothing item as an every-day element of their wardrobes. Although Hepburn’s choices were unusual at the time, the idea of sportswear was becoming more and more popular. American designers began creating clothing made from knits with the primary purpose being comfort, practicality, and ease of movement. Pants were designed but not widely adopted outside the home, until Hepburn along with some of her more liberal minded contemporaries made pants chic.
Throughout her time in films, Hepburn had chances to showcase her casual style and athletic ability onscreen. In 1952, she starred with Spencer Tracy in "Pat and Mike," the story of a professional athlete. The storyline gave her an opportunity to show off her golf skills. Just a few years later, in 1956, she showed off her abilities once again as she piloted a plane in the movie "The Iron Petticoat."
Hepburn’s wardrobe, throughout her life, was based on a desire for comfort and practicality. Much of her clothing that was considered scandalous in the 1930s is typical of American style today: slacks with button-up shirts or turtleneck sweaters. Hepburn’s style spoke to who she was, a woman of great independence, athletic ability, and determination.
There are just a few short days left to view a sampling of Katharine’s sportswear and the magnificent costumes she wore when performing. To do so, visit "Katharine Hepburn: Dressed for Stage and Screen," a traveling exhibition from the Kent State University Museum on view at the Connecticut Historical Society through September 13. The accompanying catalogue, Katharine Hepburn: Rebel Chic, is available at the CHS museum shop.
