Audrey Hepburn tops beauties poll

Breakfast At Tiffany's star Audrey Hepburn was named the most beautiful woman of the past century today, beating stars such as Cheryl Cole and Angelina Jolie.

Hepburn, famed for her classic glam pose in a black Givenchy dress, pearls and gloves in the 1961 film, topped a poll for shopping channel QVC.

The actress - who died in 1993 and was also a Unicef ambassador - narrowly held off the nation's 21st century crush, Cole, who took the runner-up spot.

Third place went to Some Like It Hot siren Marilyn Monroe, famed for her pout and classic curves.

Another classic silver screen beauty, Grace Kelly, made an appearance in fifth position, while Diana, Princess of Wales, was ranked eighth.

The survey was carried out by QVC to celebrate the start of its Beauty Month throughout July. More than 2,000 women were asked to choose the top beauties of the past 100 years.

Just missing the top 10 were Kylie Minogue, Beyonce Knowles and Audrey Tatou.