Fashionable Film

The mise-en-scène of any film is vital; colours, props, placement and costumes. But what happens when the costumes of a movie transcends the screen and influences the fashion of its time? The movie is no longer designed for a passive spectator experience, but becomes a conscious display of imaginative fashion. Recent remake The Great Gatsby earned just as much buzz for its actors and technique of adaptation to the text it was based off of as it did for its fashion (designed by legendary Prada). A good film does not need to have experimental or beautiful fashion, but there is something special about those that do. Perhaps inspiring fashion is simply another part of the imaginative experience of cinema, and we as audiences seek to recreate this in our own lives.

In the case of movies Annie Hall, Pretty in Pink and Clueless, their interesting fashions, often slightly ahead of their time, influenced the fashion of their era, as audiences did seek to actively recreate the style seen on screen. In other words, these films were fashionable. Fashionable film makes a lasting impression; here are ways one can continue to recreate the iconic looks seen in these movies.

1. Annie Hall (1977)

Annie Hall features the neurotic Woody Allen as Alvy, a man in New York City reflecting on his relationship with Annie, a ditz played by Diane Keaton. The movie is clever, simultaneously serious and comedic and realistic in its attempt to explain a somewhat dysfunctional relationship between two New Yorkers. The movie garnered much popularity, winning best picture in 1977. The movie also made its mark by introducing men’s wear as women’s wear on the big screen, as worn by the character Annie. Annie’s style is cool, relaxed and bends traditional notions of gendered fashion.

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1. Jigsaw Cashmere Scarf

2. Joseph Long Masculine Wool Coat

3. Marni Geometric Square-Frame Acetate Sunglasses

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1. Moschino C&C Beige Belted Cotton Blend Pants

2. Sulka Flower-Print Silk Tie

3. Mango Waistcoat

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1. River Island Black Panelled Smart Unfastened Blazer

2. Burberry Brit Ruched Button-Down

3. DVF Aislin Trousers

2. Pretty in Pink (1986)

Pretty in Pink was directed by quintessential 80s director John Hughes. Molly Ringwald plays a tough teenage girl, Andie, who wins the affections of snobby “richie” Steff, wealthy and charming Blane and her quirky best friend, Duckie. Andie, being poor, often sews her own clothing, such as her prom dress, or frequents the thrift store. As a result, her ensembles are unique and off-beat, often combining a mix of patterns and materials. Her sense of style is what differentiates her from her wealthier and snobby peers, and is what ultimately draws Blane to her. Her character was among the first to truly encapsulate one’s personality in fashion on the big screen, not to mention making thrift-wear chic.

1. Grevi Floral Hat

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1. Annie Flower Embroidered Cardigan

2. Zara Floral Print Leggings

3. Modcloth Hi-Top of the World in Blush

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1. McQ by Alexander McQueen Pleated Cotton Tuxedo Shirt

2. Cz by Kenneth Jay Lane Silver Flower Spray Crystal Brooch

3. Vera Wang Beige Ss Canvas Cut Vest

3. Clueless (1995)

Based on Jane Austen’s Emma, Clueless focuses on a group of teenagers in Beverly Hills, namely popular Cher. Cher strives to play matchmaker and sets up her friends and teachers, yet overlooks her own love life until she falls in love with her step-brother. The movie is a fun adaptation of Austen’s original work, and the fashion is even more so. The movie’s fashion mixes classic pieces, such as crisp button downs and argyle pattern, with bright edgier pieces, such as neon plaid and eclectic hats. This combination allowed for a modern twist on classic pieces; cool teenagers bending the rules of antiquated fashion. The movie’s fashion influence is still relevant today, as seen with recent collections such as Wildfox’s 2013 Clueless Campaign.