20 movie dresses and costumes that have made history
Several weeks ago, “Pretty Woman” made its debut on Netflix, and while we couldn’t help but get nostalgic about the romantic storyline, we were again amazed for the 100th time with the dresses and costumes.
It made us wonder how a good wardrobe can make a movie more enjoyable. Inspired by this moment, we have made a list of some of the most iconic dresses and costumes, the ones that have made history and have been recreated throughout the years:
1. Grace Kelly in the Rare Window Dress
Designed by the immensely skilled Edith Head, adorned by the equally talented and captivating Grace Kelly in Alfred Hitchcock’s masterpiece “Rear Window.”
2. The billowing white dress of Marilyn Monroe
Designed by costume designer William Travilla for “The Seven Year Itch” movie. The dress captures Monroe’s sensuality and embodies the essence of Hollywood’s golden era. Its flowing silhouette, accentuated by the gentle breeze from a subway grate, epitomizes elegance and sophistication. Monroe’s mesmerizing presence in the dress has left an indelible mark on popular culture, solidifying its status as one of the most memorable and iconic garments in cinematic history.
3. The pink dress again by Marilyn Monroe
Marilyn Monroe’s pink dress, famously worn during her performance of “Diamonds Are a Girl’s Best Friend” in the film “Gentlemen Prefer Blondes,” is designed by William Travilla. The form-fitting gown features a plunging neckline and a dramatic, full skirt adorned with shimmering sequins. Monroe’s radiant presence combined with the vibrant hue of the dress creates an unforgettable image of elegance and allure.
4. The most famous black dress of Audrey Hepburn
Audrey Hepburn’s black dress from the film “Breakfast at Tiffany’s” is one of the most iconic and enduring images in cinematic fashion history. Designed by Hubert de Givenchy, the sleeveless sheath dress features a classic silhouette with a boat neckline, showcasing Hepburn’s elegant and slender figure. The dress is accessorized with a statement pearl necklace, long gloves, oversized sunglasses, and a chic updo, creating a timeless and sophisticated look. This iconic ensemble has become synonymous with Hepburn’s character, Holly Golightly, and has inspired countless fashion trends and interpretations since its debut in 1961.
5. The white dress of the “Dirty Dancing”
The white dress worn by Jennifer Grey’s character, Frances “Baby” Houseman, in the film “Dirty Dancing,” has become an iconic symbol of 1980s fashion and romantic nostalgia. Designed by costume designer Hilary Rosenfeld, the dress features a fitted bodice with spaghetti straps and a flowing, layered skirt that sways gracefully during the film’s iconic dance sequences. The dress is worn during the climactic dance performance between Baby and Patrick Swayze’s character, Johnny Castle, to the song “(I’ve Had) The Time of My Life.” This memorable moment has solidified the white dress as an enduring image of youthful romance and self-discovery.
6. The red dress of Julia Roberts at “Pretty Woman”
Designed by costume designer Marilyn Vance, the dress features a fitted bodice, off-the-shoulder neckline, and a flowing, floor-length skirt. The vibrant red color exudes confidence and sensuality, perfectly complementing Vivian’s journey from a streetwise prostitute to a sophisticated and empowered woman. The dress is prominently featured in the film’s most memorable scenes, including the iconic moment when Vivian attends a high-end opera with Richard Gere’s character, Edward Lewis, and the romantic finale on the fire escape.
7. Michelle Pfeiffer in vibrant blue dress
The blue dress worn by Michelle Pfeiffer’s character, Elvira Hancock, in the film “Scarface,” is an iconic symbol of 1980s fashion and decadence. Designed by costume designer Patricia Norris, the dress features a sleek and form-fitting silhouette with a plunging neckline and a thigh-high slit, epitomizing Elvira’s glamorous and seductive persona. The vibrant blue color contrasts sharply with Elvira’s platinum blonde hair and icy demeanor, adding to her allure and mystique. The dress is prominently featured in several key scenes, including Elvira’s memorable entrance at a nightclub and her dramatic confrontation with Al Pacino’s character, Tony Montana. Pfeiffer’s portrayal of Elvira in the blue dress has left an indelible mark on popular culture, inspiring countless fashion trends and interpretations since the film’s release in 1983.
8. The seductive white dress of Sharon Stone
In “Basic Instinct,” Sharon Stone’s white dress is iconic for its role in one of the film’s most infamous scenes. The scene where Stone uncrosses her legs while wearing the dress has become legendary, sparking much controversy and discussion upon the film’s release in 1992. The dress itself, designed by Ellen Mirojnick, symbolizes Catherine’s seductive and manipulative nature, as well as her penchant for pushing boundaries.
9. Yellow and black striped co-ord and matching trainers of Uma Thurman
You want some coolness and a killer style? Uma Thurman’s yellow and black striped co-ord and matching trainers in “Kill Bill” are jusy that, a stylish and fierce statement of empowerment. Designed by costume designer Catherine Marie Thomas, this vibrant ensemble perfectly complements Thurman’s badass character, The Bride, as she embarks on her quest for vengeance. The bold stripes and coordinated look embody The Bride’s determination and strength, while the matching trainers add a touch of practicality to her lethal prowess.
10. The iconic evening gown in “Titanic”
The evening gown worn by Kate Winslet’s character, Rose DeWitt Bukater, in “Titanic” is a breathtaking symbol of elegance and romance. Designed by costume designer Deborah Lynn Scott, this exquisite gown features delicate lace detailing, a fitted bodice, and a voluminous skirt cascading in luxurious layers of fabric. Adorned with shimmering beads and sequins, the gown captures the opulence of the Edwardian era while embodying Rose’s timeless beauty and grace. Its iconic appearance in the film’s pivotal scenes, including the memorable “flying” moment on the ship’s bow, has solidified its status as a beloved symbol of love and luxury. With its timeless charm and enchanting allure, the evening gown from “Titanic” continues to captivate audiences and inspire dreams.
11. The sexy leather of Halle Berry
A sexy leather costume for the perfect Catwoman. Halle Berry’s leather costume as Catwoman in the 2004 film is purr-fectly iconic! Crafted by costume designer Angus Strathie, this sleek and sassy ensemble features a form-fitting leather bodysuit adorned with intricate stitching and metallic accents, complete with matching gloves and boots. Berry’s portrayal of the feline femme fatale exudes confidence and agility, embodying the essence of Catwoman’s playful yet fierce nature. The costume has clawed its way into pop culture history, inspiring countless Halloween costumes and cosplay tributes, and cementing its status as the cat’s meow of superhero fashion.
12. The iconic costume at Clueless
Cher’s yellow plaid ensemble in “Clueless” is like, totally iconic, darling! Designed by costume designer Mona May, this fabulously chic outfit features a matching yellow plaid blazer and mini-skirt set, paired with knee-high socks and Mary Jane heels. As if! Cher’s sunny disposition and fashion-forward style shine bright in this adorable ensemble, epitomizing ’90s teen fashion with a playful twist. The yellow plaid look has become synonymous with Cher’s signature flair, inspiring countless fashion trends and nostalgic throwbacks. It’s, like, totally buggin’ how cute and timeless this outfit remains!
13. The colorful minidress of “13 going 30”
The vibrant minidress, adorned with crystallized straps, playful empire-waist cutouts, and bold stripes in turquoise, lime green, and scarlet hues, first graced the runway of the Italian luxury brand’s spring 2003 collection. However, its most memorable moment came in the 2004 romantic comedy “13 Going on 30,” where Jennifer Garner’s character, Jenna Rink, dazzled audiences while performing the iconic “Thriller” dance, so much that we are still replicating it.
14. Legally blonde’s cute bunny costume
The bunny Halloween costume in “Legally Blonde” is a fabulously fun. Designed by costume designer Sophie de Rakoff, this adorable outfit features a fluffy pink bunny tail, a playful bunny ears headband, and a flirty pink corset-style top adorned with white fur trim. Worn by Reese Witherspoon’s character, Elle, during a memorable party scene, the bunny costume perfectly showcases her bubbly personality and flair for fashion.
15. The yellow dress in “How to lose a guy in 10 days”
The full-length yellow silk gown in “How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days” is more than just a dress; it’s a symbol of transformation and empowerment. As Andie Anderson navigates the ups and downs of love and career, the gown becomes a metaphor for her journey toward self-discovery and independence. Its vibrant hue mirrors Andie’s vibrant personality, while its flowing silhouette reflects her newfound freedom and confidence. When she dons the gown for the gala event, Andie not only captures the attention of her love interest but also commands the room with her poise and elegance. Through its exquisite beauty and undeniable charm, the yellow gown serves as a reminder that true love and happiness come from embracing oneself fully and fearlessly.
16. The whole pink crew of “Mean Girls”
“On Wednesdays we wear pink.” is the famous line. Secretly, we would all oblige to that rule, because the mean girls group was so fetch. And why did we wall want to be part of it?
17. Anne Hathaway evening black dress at “Devil wears Prada”
Designed by costume designer Patricia Field, this stunning gown features a form-fitting silhouette with a plunging neckline and a daring thigh-high slit, exuding both elegance and allure. Worn by Hathaway’s character, Andy Sachs, during a pivotal scene, the black dress serves as a symbol of her transformation from a naive assistant to a confident and empowered woman. Its timeless design and understated glamour perfectly capture the chic and glamorous world of high fashion.
18. “Sex and the city” famous wedding gown
Carrie Bradshaw’s wedding gown in the “Sex and the City” movie is the stuff dreams are made of! Designed by the legendary Vivienne Westwood, this ethereal confection features a voluminous skirt adorned with layers of tulle and delicate floral embellishments, creating a whimsical and romantic silhouette fit for a modern-day princess. Carrie’s gown is a true work of art, embodying the iconic designer’s signature style and Carrie’s own unique sense of fashion-forward flair.
19. The green scarf element in the “Confessions of a Shopaholic”
In “Confessions of a Shopaholic,” the green scarf is more than just a fashion accessory; it’s a symbol of hope, determination, and a touch of whimsy. Worn by Isla Fisher’s character, Rebecca Bloomwood, the green scarf becomes her signature statement piece as she navigates the ups and downs of her shopping addiction and dreams of becoming a successful journalist. With its vibrant color and playful patterns, the scarf reflects Rebecca’s optimistic spirit and unwavering belief in herself, even in the face of adversity. Throughout the film, the green scarf serves as a reminder that sometimes, all it takes is a little bit of style and a whole lot of confidence to conquer the world. And hey, who says fashion can’t be a source of inspiration and empowerment?
20. The “Crazy Rich Asian” wedding dress
It took 3 weeks and 30 people to make the wedding dress embedded with thousands of gold Swarovski crystals. Because well, there are weddings and there are crazy rich weddings. And the wedding dress in “Crazy Rich Asians” is a stunning masterpiece fit for royalty!
stylisphere
most read
