Fashionable History: Hitchcock Blondes

There is a certain type of blonde that repeatedly appear in Alfred Hitchcock's films. They are not the "dumb blonde" or the "California blonde", they are the icy, fair skinned, smart, expertly coiffed, classy, brave, steely platinum blondes that have become known as the Hitchcock Blonde. In his movies, Hitchcock defined this look so well it has become a reference for fashion designers and a style inspiration for women across the globe. Hitchcock himself explains his preference as only he can; "You know why I favor sophisticated blondes in my films? We're after the drawing-room type, the real ladies, who become whores once they're in the bedroom....Because sex should not be advertised....Because without the element of surprise the scenes become meaningless. There's no possibility to discover sex." That is precisely the point that makes his movies and his leading ladies so memorable and inspiring.

While there were many blonde actresses in his films, here's a look at the top four most quintessential Hitchcock blondes.


Kim Novak :Vertigo (1958).

Of all the leading ladies, she is the iciest and most mysterious.

Eva Marie Saint: North By Northwest (1959).

She can look fabulous dodging bullets while running across Mt. Rushmore.

Tippi Hedren: The Birds (1963). Marnie (1964).

Her role in The Birds (as well as her relationship with Hitchcock) was perhaps the most difficult.

And finally, Hitchcock's favorite, Grace Kelly. Rear Window (1954), Dial M for Murder (1954), and To Catch a Thief (1955).
She represents the classic Hitchcock signature of beauty, brains, and high class.