Cinema has long been a canvas for showcasing cutting-edge fashion, blending storytelling with style to create iconic looks that resonate far beyond the screen. Here are eight films that have left an indelible mark on the fashion world, inspiring designers, stylists, and fashion enthusiasts alike.
Breakfast at Tiffany’s (1961)
Director: Blake Edwards
Audrey Hepburn’s role as Holly Golightly is the epitome of timeless elegance. From the iconic black Givenchy dress, this film is a masterclass in 1960s glamour that continues to influence fashion today.
Best Look: Audrey Hepburn’s legendary black Givenchy dress, accessorised with chic pearls, oversized sunglasses, and long black gloves. This ensemble set the standard for classic 1960s elegance and remains just as relevant an iconic today.
American Gigolo (1980)
Director: Paul Schrader
Richard Gere’s portrayal of a high-end male escort is synonymous with sophisticated style, featuring a wardrobe designed by Giorgio Armani. The film’s emphasis on tailored suits, crisp shirts, and minimalist aesthetics revolutionised men’s fashion and solidified Armani’s status in the industry.
Best Look: Richard Gere’s timeless wardrobe, particularly the grey Giorgio Armani suit with a pearly grey shirt and sleek dotted tie. This minimalist, modern look will forever be timeless in men’s fashion.
A Single Man (2009)
Director: Tom Ford
Directed by the legendary fashion designer Tom Ford, this film is a visual feast of mid-century modern style. With its impeccable menswear and sophisticated 1960s fashion, every frame is a testament to refined elegance and meticulous aesthetics.
Best Look: Frankly speaking any of Colin Firth’s impeccably tailored suits, however I am particularly a fan of the humble crisp white shirt and perfectly knotted tie combo.
Clueless (1995)
Director: Amy Heckerling
Relive the rowdy fashion of the 1990s through Alicia Silverstone’s iconic role as Cher Horowitz. From plaid skirts to knee-high socks, “Clueless” encapsulates preppy chic and playful style, setting trends that are still celebrated today.
Best Look: Alicia Silverstone’s yellow plaid suit paired with a white shirt, knee-high socks, and Mary Jane shoes. This preppy, playful style defined 1990s teen fashion and remains a true nostalgic favourite.
Marie Antoinette (2006)
Director: Sofia Coppola
Experience the opulence of the Rococo era with lavish costumes designed by Milena Canonero. Sofia Coppola’s “Marie Antoinette” dazzles with extravagant gowns, elaborate wigs, and luxurious accessories, making it a visual spectacle of 18th-century fashion.
Best Look: Kirsten Dunst’s pastel blue gown adorned with intricate lace and floral details, complete with an elaborate updo and a feathered fan. This look captures the over-the-top opulence of the Rococo era.
Wall Street (1987)
Director: Oliver Stone
Michael Douglas’s portrayal of Gordon Gekko epitomises the power suit, symbolising 1980s corporate greed and excess. The film’s sleek, tailored suits and bold ties defined the era’s business fashion and continue to influence modern corporate attire.
Best Look: Michael Douglas’s power suits, especially the bold pinstripe suit paired with a contrast collar shirt and suspenders. This look epitomises the sharp, strong and at times cold style of 1980s corporate culture.
The Great Gatsby (2013)
Director: Baz Luhrmann
Step into the extravagant lifestyles of the Roaring Twenties with flapper dresses, tailored suits, and opulent jewellery designed by Miuccia Prada and Catherine Martin. “The Great Gatsby” brings the Jazz Age to life with a modern twist, capturing the essence of the era’s glamour.
Best Look: Carey Mulligan’s sparkling flapper dress, adorned with sequins and paired with a feathered headpiece. This outfit captures the true glitz and glamour of the Jazz Age.
Black Panther (2018)
Director: Ryan Coogler
Ruth E. Carter’s Oscar-winning costume design for “Black Panther” is a stunning blend of traditional African attire and futuristic elements. This film not only created a visually unique world but also paid homage to African culture, setting new standards for fashion in cinema and MCU alike.
Best Look: Danai Gurira’s character Okoye in her regal attire, blending traditional African designs with futuristic elements. Her warrior costume features bold colours of red and gold armour with authentic intricate African design patterns and beadwork throughout.
