Despite having taken a course in film studies, I would not consider myself a film fanatic or expert. In fact, I am probably the farthest thing from a film critic. But what I do love is how movies transport you to a different time, a different space. One of the key parts of having that done successfully for me is with the clothing in films. Through how the characters are styled and costumed, you get so much more insight into the movie’s plot and their individual personality and motivation. What you may also get in return is some fashion inspiration. In fact, exiting any good movie, I am more likely to comment on the movie’s fashion than on any of its other qualities. This got me thinking: why can’t I use some of my favorite movie characters as style inspirations during this fashion rut of mine? While we all love and adore the fashion in movies like Sex and The City or Breakfast at Tiffany’s, I decided to curate a short list of surprisingly stylish films you wouldn’t expect to get inspired from to shake things up a bit.
1. Blade Runner, directed by Ridley Scott
In anticipation of seeing the much-talked about movie Blade Runner 2049, a friend and I decided to watch the first Blade Runner from 1982. While both of these films were surprisingly fashionably linked to this year’s new space age fashion trend, I found the original so interesting because they were predicting what we would be wearing in the year 2019. While some of the shoulder padding was still very ‘80s, a few of the outfits resonated with me. From Rutger Hauer’s bad-ass character’s effortless biker-style to Sean Young’s iconic fur coat, there are plenty scenes to be inspired by.
2. The Notebook, directed by Nick Cassavetes
Make sure to grab a box of tissues when you re-watch this one, but how could I not mention some of Rachel McAdam’s adorable dresses? From when they first met, to when the two were bathing and of course when they were kissing in the rain, this couple gets an A+ for their style and fashion sense. If you feel like trying out the retro pin-up style, this movie is a good place to start.
3. The Great Gatsby, directed by Baz Luhrmann
I had to mention this one just because it had such a huge impact on fashion and its industry when it came out. From many Gatsby themed proms (mine was one of these) to the comeback of the flapper style, everyone wanted to be decked out like glamorous celebrities from the 1920’s. And the style isn’t all that hard to imitate! All you need is a little more fringe, a shift dress, some fabulous shoes and just maybe, a touch of sparkle!
4. Skyfall, directed by Sam Mendes
There will never be a time when a tailored black suit will be out of fashion, but James Bond wears it the best. Honestly, I could have picked any of the Bond movies, but Skyfall’s Bérénice Marlohe and her costumes were simply to die for. Her smoky cat-eye makeup and simple red dress were stunning, but she gave us tips on how to dress it up in her jeweled, black evening gown. Who wouldn’t want to dress like a Bond girl for one night?
5. Clockwork Orange, directed by Stanley Kubrick
This one might be a bit of a curveball, but if you love glam rock icons like Bowie, you will probably love how the misfits from Clockwork Orange were styled. Not only did this movie send me on a hunt for a classic bowler hat, but it taught us how to dress like in the 70s. Think patterns, colors and statement pieces if you want this style!
6. Carol, directed by Todd Haynes
Rooney Mara shows us how to stay cute, but warm with her adorable layering techniques. Set in the 1950’s, the movie follows two women as they fall in love. Carol, the older woman, shows us how to dress elegantly, but her young lover’s attire seems more youthful. From plaid barrettes and headbands, the accessories shown in this film can inspire anyone to get out of their winter fashion rut.
7. Begin Again directed by Sean Carney
If you love New York and you want to get the urban attire of Brooklyn, just watch this movie! In this drama, Keira Knightley schools us on how to get that laid back androgynous look. Just find some loose-fitting trousers and a boxy crop-top—that’s pretty much it! A slouchy knit sweater never looked so good.