“Clothes make the man,” or so the saying goes. In film, they certainly try, and the lessons of cinematic costuming can be applied to our own personal style. It’s not about mimicking movie characters (although I’m not opposed to the idea), but about understanding the language of costume design and using it to express our unique selves.
Just like in cinema, our clothing is our opening scene. Consider Mia Wallace in Pulp Fiction. Her effortlessly cool, minimalist style – crisp white shirt, black cigarette pants – speaks volumes about her confidence and understated power. The Silence + Noise Leilani Slim Button Up Shirt embodies this style and adds more shape to an ensemble. This can be incorporated into personal style: mixed with contrasting pieces, such as flared jeans, or even a pair with a wider leg.
Setting the scene is also crucial. Think of the vibrant, bohemian style of Penny Lane in Almost Famous. Her layered looks, filled with vintage finds and flowing fabrics, perfectly capture the free-spirited, rock-and-roll atmosphere of the 70s. Due to the stark contrast between this and our everyday lives, it may be more digestible to include certain parts of her fashion sense into your own wardrobe. The fur coats in this film are undeniably iconic, which can be a great layering piece, especially in these colder months. The Reclaimed Vintage Brown Trench has faux fur, mimicking the coat from Almost Famous.
In these movies, fashion is a major form of symbolism. Remember the iconic red dress of Vivian Ward in Pretty Woman? It’s a bold statement, signifying her transformation and newfound confidence. The color itself, a vibrant crimson, radiates passion and power, in contrast to her earlier wardrobe. Similarly, the eclectic and bold style of Meryl Streep’s character in The Devil Wears Prada. It showcases her journey from “frumpy” to fashionable, reflecting her growing confidence and power. This translates to our own lives: a statement piece, whether it’s a brightly colored coat, a unique wash jean, or a striking accessory, can be a powerful tool for expressing a shift in our personal narrative.
Beyond individual pieces, the overall silhouette and texture of the clothing play a major role. Think about the sharp, tailor suits of Michael Corleone in The Godfather. They project an image of authority and control, reflecting his growing power within the family. While we might not be vying for control of a criminal empire, the principle remains: structured clothing can convey confidence and professionalism.
No matter what style your outfit is, from streetwear to punk, finding well fitting pieces that work cohesively with one another will make a great impact. Ultimately, personal style, like a well-crafted film, is about storytelling. It’s about creating a visual narrative that reflects your personality, experiences, and aspirations.
