For over a century, Hollywood has been at the forefront of pushing cultural and aesthetic boundaries through its art. From the glitz and glamour of Old Hollywood to the wackiness and outrageousness of today, one of the most captivating aspects of cinema and television has been the revolutionary fashion choices of the stars that have emerged from it. What makes these memorable fashion moments so iconic is their ability to influence pop culture, with many of these looks becoming timeless trends that have stood the test of time. Through this article, we’ll explore how some of the most iconic movie and TV fashion moments have been inspiring generations of fashion fanatics throughout the decades.
1. The Power of Iconic Movie and TV Fashion
The fashion that comes out of iconic movies and TV shows is part of the culture surrounding them. Many of the costumes worn in those programmes become part of the popular zeitgeist, recognizable and reproduced even after the original has gone from the public eye. It’s a testament to the power of the collective memories of their fans. Here’s why:
- It stands out. The outfits chosen for movie and TV characters often work to tell the story – to reflect the character’s place, attitudes, behaviours, skills, and even potential. That makes them memorably distinct, even when mimicked without context.
- It’s timeless. Some movie and TV fashion has days or decades and still holds its own. Think, for instance, of James Dean’s white t-shirt in Rebel Without a Cause. The look he wore is beloved today, more than 65 years later, yet still chic.
It’s estimated that over $150 billion was spent by consumers in 2020 on movies, TV series, and other entertainment. A large portion of this was directed toward the clothing and accessories worn by characters on the screen. This shows the powerful appeal that iconic movie and TV fashion has, as people pay to wear merchandise that is based on them.
Iconic movie and TV fashion is not only an interesting phenomenon to observe, but it is also a great opportunity for creatives, as evidenced by the recent rise of collaborative collections inspired by popular characters.
2. Captivating Iconic Movie and TV Fashion Moments
Throughout history, movie and TV fashion moments have held a privileged place in our hearts and memories. From the classic vogue of Audrey Hepburn and the bright style of Elvis Presley to the rebellious trends of punks and rockers, unforgettable style moments are immortalized in imagination.
- The Edgy Leather Jacket.The edgy leather jacket has always been a statement in pop-culture, going from Marlon Brando’s The Wild Ones to the cool leather coats seen in the movie Grease. It’s a staple that’s as symbolic now as it was before.
- The Crop Top and High Waisted Jeans.The wardrobe from Cluelesscaptured the coming of age for millions of women in the 90s. The midriff-baring crop tops and high waisted jeans became fashion fan favorites.
- The Diva Jacket.The Diva jacket seen in the 80s classic Flashdanceis as electrifying now as it was when the movie first came out in 1983. Whether draped loosely or zipped up tight, the diva jacket is an iconic look.
Beyond the limelight of classic movies and TV shows, iconic looks are made up of everyday street style. Style moments like flared jeans, seventies platform boots or the more recent Nike Air Max have all made their own splash in the world of fashion. It’s clear to see why timeless fashion moments have a unique place in everyone’s heart.
3. Exploring How Fashion Moments in Movies and TV Influence Pop Culture
It’s no secret that movies and television have always had a major influence on pop culture, specifically when it comes to fashion. From classic films to beloved televisions series, certain moments of fashion have become iconic. In modern times, these widely-recognized fashion moments continue to reverberate throughout popular culture to this day.
Take Audrey Hepburn’s iconic little black dress from Breakfast at Tiffany’s or the power-suit ensembles of the female characters in Working Girl as examples. Such characters have paved the way for generations that followed to not only adopt these looks, but to also serve as inspiration for more current fashion trends. Events such as the Met Gala or fashion weeks in Paris and New York give us an opportunity to see glimpses of how Hollywood influences high fashion as well.
It doesn’t end with just fashion, either. Movies and television often influence hairstyles, beauty trends and more. Take the famous Rachel cut from Friends, for instance. During the 1990s, the hairstyle became so popular that barbers had to re-name the layered haircut with Jennifer Aniston’s character’s title. Similarly, even the make-up looks seen on many characters are often mimicked on red carpets around the world.
Fashion plays an important role in film and television, and it is ultimately these iconic moments that drive fashion choices in popular culture. From the small screen to red carpets, it is evident that these beloved fashion moments continue to affect the world, inspiring then and now.
4. Achieving Timeless Style with Iconic Movie and TV Fashion Moments
Fashion from movies and TV shows is often iconic, timeless, and embodies the spirit of the era. As such, fashion from the silver screen often sets trends and forever immortalizes eras, movements, and momentous occasions.
- Breakfast At Tiffany’s (1961): Audrey Hepburn’s iconic look, the black dress, pearls, and oversized sunglasses, are often copied decades later. Popularized as “lunch at Tiffany’s,” the look has endured in pop culture, becoming a classic and forever noted as one of the icons of mid-century fashion elegance and sophistication.
- The Graduate (1967): Dustin Hoffman’s character Benjamin, was made famous by his off-the-rack three-piece navy suit from a men’s store in the film. Still a popular choice today, especially for younger generations, the simple look of the navy suit, white shirt, and thin tie continues to epitomize the ambivalent innocence of being young and aimless.
- Grey Gardens (1975): Grey Gardens, a film based on the eccentric lifestyle of Jackie Kennedy’s aunt and cousin, features fashion that was ahead of its time. The costumes are a mix of thrifted pieces, designer or tailor-made luxury items, and a funky boho style that blends of comfort and glamour, two aspects of dressing that still influence modern day fashion.
- Happy Days (1974-1984): The Fifties were back and burst onto the scene with Joanie and Chachi, the Fonz, and a bevy of characters that sported poodle skirts, saddle shoes, bobby socks, and leather jackets. The show is credited with starting a trend in retro-style clothing and the jukebox era of rock and roll never looked so fashionable.
Movie and TV fashion provide escapism for the viewer, while at the same time, bringing back memories of the era they come from. From Vivienne Westwood’s punk rock looks to the roaring twenties, and all the jumpsuits, berets, and denim jackets in between, the fashion from the silver screen is often a window into the past and the cultural movements of times gone by.
Although everyone loves to look back and remember their favorite movie and TV fashion moments, the legacy of these foundational looks has far surpassed the realm of nostalgia. From red carpets to runways, these iconic fashion moments have influenced how we dress, and set the tone for two generations of vibrant popular culture.
