The right costumes can make memorable movie characters even more colorful and convincing. This year’s Academy Award nominees for Outstanding Costume Design created remarkable looks of different styles, cultures, and eras to help transport audiences to different places and times. Here’s the rundown of the nominees and what went into crafting those material masterpieces. Plus, we threw in some fun fashion picks to help you get the look of your favorite film characters.
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Arianne Phillips,
Walk the Line
For this film set in the ’50s and ’60s, Phillips used mostly vintage pieces “to add an extra layer of realism.” This included costumes for nearly 1,000 extras, in addition to the film’s lead characters. But for Johnny Cash’s classic “Man in Black” look, Phillips had each suit made from scratch. She also looked at lots of old photographs of June Carter Cash to get a true sense of her style, which was quite worldly and polished for a country girl.
You’ll look country fresh in this ’50s-inspired spring frock.
Bee Balm Dress, $118, anthropologie.com
Jacqueline
Durran, Pride and
Prejudice
For this romantic film, Durran chose to go with the soft, late 18th-century look of when the author began writing the tale, rather than the rigid 19th-century look that was in fashion when the book was published. While her creations are true to the time in which the story was written, Durran’s own fresh take on the clothing of the period complement, this latest film version of the classic novel.
This lacy corset tank shows a hint of English elegance.
Mandi Cami, $49, guess.com
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 Gabriella Pescucci
Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory
Pescucci’s challenge was in creating an updated look for the whimsical Willy Wonka while maintaining the character’s classic quirky image. To do this, the Academy Award-winning designer fashioned a variety of plush, deep-toned jackets and overcoats for his wardrobe, which she describes as “contemporary, but with some old-world styling.”
 Channel your inner Willy Wonka in a chocolate-colored coat.
Velvet Topper Coat, $229, bloomingdales.com
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 Colleen Atwood,
Memoirs of a Geisha
For the 250 ornate, tailor-made kimonos used in the film, Atwood chose bolder prints, patterns, and colors than are traditionally used for the beautiful Japanese garments. Atwood’s dazzling designs exhibit the authentic elegance of the geisha with a very modern, dramatic flair.
Go geisha in a kimono-style top.
Yasu Wrap, $29.50, delias.com
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 Sandy Powell, Mrs.
Henderson Presents
Powell used a rich mix of styles and textures for the wealthy, impeccably dressed Mrs. Henderson. The main character’s style includes ethnic-influenced jewelry and clothing, luxurious furs, and sculptured hats that show she is both sophisticated and well-traveled. Among Powell’s other creations for the film are gorgeous, 1930s showgirl costumes.
 Present yourself with style in a fancy fur-trimmed sweater.
Nine West Faux Fur Collar Cardigan, $28.90, nordstrom.com
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Cool Career
Do you dream of dressing the hottest stars in Oscar-worthy films? If so, you could have what it takes to be a TV or film costume designer. With a degree in Film & TV Costume Design from FIDM, you could have a career just like this year’s best costume nominees. Click here to find out more about this major. |
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