“Discover how fashion and film collide to create unforgettable movie magic”
Movies are a visual feast, and it’s undeniable that the visual elements are just as important as the plot or script. The ‘costumes’ of the characters are one of those elements and are sometimes even more important than others. Costumes can communicate certain messages that the script cannot put into words.
In real life, clothes are not just about warmth and safety. They reveal a lot about our mood, age, occupation, personality, and even our background. Our clothes reflect our identity, thoughts, and tastes. The same goes for movies.
Costumes in film are essential tools that help to tell a story and communicate a character’s background without using words. They can show character development and the moment in the background of the movie, creating realism and adding depth to the story.
When we think of famous movies from the past, iconic costumes of the characters often come to mind. These costumes help make the movie successful and favored. The Oscars or the Academy Awards, the biggest film award ceremony in the industry, even have a category for ‘Best Costume Design.’ The movie that wins this award will become known for having the most iconic dresses or legendary costumes in a movie.
Bringing those dresses to the list requires creativity, style, a keen eye for detail, and the skill to communicate ideas without using words. The costumes featured in movies are not simply articles of clothing; they play an essential role in the narrative, captivating the viewers and leaving them craving for more.
In this article, we’ll explore the fascinating history of fashion in film, from its early beginnings to its modern influence on the world. We’ll also take a closer look at some of the most iconic looks from films around the world and provide tips on how to recreate them.
So, come with us on a journey through the history of fashion in film and discover the impact that these iconic looks have had on the world—From classic Hollywood to the latest blockbusters.
Exploring the Dynamic Relationship between Fashion and Film
The relationship between fashion and film is not just about creating stunning costumes, it’s about creating characters that are believable and relatable. Fashion can help to convey important information about a character, such as their personality, status, and backstory. It can also be used to create a sense of time and place, helping to bring the audience to a different era or location.
Today, the relationship between fashion and film continues to evolve. With the rise of social media and the internet, fashion has become more accessible to the masses, and the influence of film on fashion has become more apparent. Movie costumes and looks are now regularly featured on fashion blogs and social media, inspiring new trends and creating a deeper connection between the two industries.
In recent years, fashion designers and brands have also become more involved in the film industry. Brands such as Gucci, Prada, and Louis Vuitton have sponsored films, providing costumes and accessories for the characters. These collaborations have resulted in some of the most iconic and memorable fashion moments in film history.
—Daisy Buchanan’s Prada Flapper dress from The Great Gatsby
The influence of film on fashion is also apparent in the way films are marketed and promoted. Movie costumes and looks are now regularly featured on fashion blogs and social media, inspiring new trends and creating a deeper connection between the two industries. Today, the relationship between fashion and film is stronger than ever, and it creates the endless possibilities of collaboration and creativity.
Hollywood has been a significant driving force behind the development of fashion in movies. Starting from the golden era of Hollywood and continuing through to today’s blockbuster hits, costume design has been vital in crafting unforgettable looks and scenes that leave a lasting impact on audiences.
One of the most influential Hollywood films on fashion is undoubtedly “Breakfast at Tiffany’s.” The little black dress worn by Audrey Hepburn in the film became a timeless fashion staple and a symbol of elegance and sophistication. It was designed by the iconic designer, Hubert de Givenchy, who went on to collaborate with Hepburn on many other films.
Fast forward to today, and the impact of fashion on film is as strong as ever. Take the recent hit film “Bridgerton,” for example. The show’s stunning costumes, designed by Ellen Mirojnick, were a key part of the show’s appeal. From the opulent dresses worn by the main characters to the subtle differences in the clothing of each family, the costumes helped to bring the world of Regency-era England to life.
And let’s not forget the recent hit film “Everything Everywhere All At Once.” The film’s costume designer, Arianne Phillips, used fashion to help define the film’s complex characters and different universes. With over 300 costumes in the film, each one carefully crafted to reflect the character’s personality and the world they inhabit, Phillips helped to create a visually stunning and compelling film that resonated with audiences around the world.
TO THE WORLD
While Hollywood may be the most prominent film industry globally, other film industries around the world have also made significant contributions to the intersection of fashion and film.
“City of God” is a film that transports its audience to the gritty and vibrant world of Rio de Janeiro’s favelas, and one of the key ways it does so is through its incredible costume design. The film’s costume designers expertly use clothing, accessories, and hairstyles to create a vivid and authentic portrayal of life in the favelas. The clothing worn by the characters is often tattered and worn-out, reflecting the poverty and struggle they face. Yet, at the same time, the bold use of bright colors and patterns brings a sense of energy and vibrancy to the screen, underscoring the film’s message that life in the favelas is anything but dull.
The attention to detail in the costume design extends beyond just clothing, as the characters’ accessories and hairstyles are also used to great effect. For example, Rocket’s camera is not just a prop, but an essential part of his character and a symbol of his aspirations. Meanwhile, Benny’s flashy clothing and jewelry convey his desire for attention and status within the community. These small details help to create memorable characters that stay with you long after the film has ended.
Another industry that has made significant contributions to fashion in film is the Korean film industry, fashion has become an integral part of the storytelling process. Korean films often feature characters that are well-dressed and stylish, with fashion helping to define their personalities and status. the critically acclaimed South Korean film “Parasite”, directed by Bong Joon-ho, features an impressive costume design that helps to convey important details about the characters and their social status. The costumes create visual contrasts between the wealthy Park family and the struggling Kim family, emphasizing the film’s themes of class struggle and social inequality. Additionally, the Kims’ transformation into their wealthy counterparts illustrates the idea that social mobility is only possible through deception and manipulation, perpetuating the cycle of inequality.
LET’S GET DRESS !
Be prepare to dominate the galaxy.
So, whether you’re a film nerd, a fashion student, or just someone who appreciates a good story, take a moment to appreciate the impact of fashion on film. The next time you watch a movie, pay attention to the costumes and the fashion choices of the characters. You might be surprised at just how much they can tell you about the story and the characters themselves.
And for those of you who are inspired by the impact of fashion on film, why not explore it further? Take a fashion design course, learn about the history of costume design, or even try your hand at creating your own film. Who knows, you might just be the next Edith Head or Jenny Beavan.
AND REMEMBER
“Fashion is not about utility. An accessory is merely a piece of iconography used to express individual identity”
Doug, The Devil Wears Prada
