Dame Helen Mirren tops over 50s style icon poll

28 November 2011

The Oscar-winning actress' classic, elegant and understated look saw off competition from internationally recognised 60s model Twiggy, to claim the title.

Making up the top five were actress turned activist Joanna Lumley in third, followed by Lulu in fourth and Dame Judi Dench.

A spokeswoman for Viyella, the clothing brand who commissioned the poll, said: ''Dame Helen Mirren has as much style, grace and elegance off screen as she does on it and is a fitting icon for the women of her generation.

''All too often we are bombarded with images of youth and temporary trends, so it's great to see such a varied list filled with women of real class.''

Former Spice Girl turned successful fashion designer Victoria Beckham was the youngest woman to appear on the list. The mum-of-four took a surprise spot just outside the top five, showing she has pulling power with those who appreciate refined fashion irrespective of age.

Out of 1,000 women polled, nine out of 10 admitted that they have started to enjoy shopping as they have got older. The same percentage said they took pride in their appearance and more than half said they never worry about dressing inappropriately for their age.

Pint-size pop princess Kylie Minogue took an impressive 12th place, while glowing talent show judge Amanda Holden clearly has the talent to take 14th.

A surprise name on the list is fashion conscious Samantha Cameron, the Prime Minister's wife, who followed bump-at-the-front Amanda Holden in 15th.

A Viyella spokeswoman added: ''Victoria Beckham has proven once again that she carries universal appeal.

''As the youngest woman in the results, she shows that women in their fifties aren't afraid to embrace younger styles when they're done the right way.''

''These results show that age really isn't a barrier to style or confidence. In fact, it can be quite the opposite.

''It's inspiring to see that many women over fifty are more comfortable in their self, confident in their style and brave enough to explore new clothing options.''

The full top 20 style icons for ladies over 50 is as follows:

1. Helen Mirren

2. Twiggy

3. Joanna Lumley

4. Lulu

5. Judi Dench

6. Victoria Beckham

7. Elle Macpherson

8. Carol Voderman

9. Carole Middleton

10. Nigella Lawson

11. Jane Seymour