A lot goes into making a movie, from the star power to the costumes they wear. Oftentimes the wardrobe can even take on a persona of its own. So if you’re looking to go bigger than just small screen attire, then check out how you can look just as chic as these iconic motion pictures’ leading ladies did, all while sparing yourself the need for a Hollywood blockbuster budget.
Alice in Wonderland (1951, 2010)
Whether you’re into the cartoon version or Burton version, the flick’s inspired multiple designers’ creations recently. Take a look at these recs for Alice’s signature blue dress. Trust us, this is a rabbit hole you want to fall down.
Go with embroidery or a more modern edge.
The Seven Year Itch (1955)
Just as Marilyn Monroe crosses a subway grate, her crisp white halter-neck breezes on up. But the beauty handles it all as classily as can be in the well-known scene, and why wouldn’t she? With a frock as perfect as that, you could get away with just about anything.
Of course Victoria’s Secret would recreate a similar pleated halter playdress; a girlier embroidered dress; or BCBG also has an even lighter silk dress.
Breakfast At Tiffany’s (1961)
Holly Golightly’s iconic Givenchy dress in this film favorite not only set in stone Audrey Hepburn’s status as a style queen (after all, who else could make a bed sheet look so artfully elegant at a cocktail party? Not to mention that picture-perfect white dress and big bonnet combo she wore at the races in My Fair Lady), but it also made the little black dress a fashion staple in women’s closets everywhere. This classic frock made its first appearance nearly half a century ago, and its ability to transcend time and remain ever-popular shows just why the outfit is considered the greatest female screen outfit of all time. Recreating the famous scene is easy enough: emerge elegantly from a cab and look through a Tiffany’s window with coffee and croissant daintily in hand. Here’s how you can recreate the versatile look too:
These two simple and elegant knee-length LBDs with Audrey’s preferred boatneck neckline are easy grab-off-the-rack items for multiple outfit ideas. Grab those Wayfarers and some pearls, pile your hair up high into a French Twist, and you’re good to go!
Grease (1978)
Olivia Newton-John made a style statement with her leather and leggings in this classic. And it’s simple to update the look and give it your own edge. But maybe skip the ’70s hairstyle.
Grab some leather leggings, an off-the-shoulder top and smokin’ peep toe pumps.
Pretty Woman (1990)
Sure her character was a prostitute, but Julia Roberts sure classed it up in this floor-length cherry red opera dazzler.
Pick a style: with shoulder bands, ruffled, satin and chiffon, or halter.
The Talented Mr. Ripley (1999)
Ah, the film filled with both beautiful people and beautiful clothes. What’s not to love about Gwyneth Paltrow’s ’50s-inspired A-line skirts and gingham bikinis?
Tie up an American Apparel button-up and match it with a Monsoon skirt, canvas Keds, and a cute straw tote from endless or J. Crew. Slip on a bikini underneath for a summer day at the beach!
Miss Congeniality (2000)
Gracie Hart made beauty pageants relatable to any woman who wasn’t born with the grace or manners of a princess. And she totally rocked that figure-hugging lilac mini.
Head into the fitting room with ASOS Textured Bandeau Dress or Tailored Linen Bandeau Pencil Dress, Jarlo Bandeau Dress with Zip Detail, or try American Apparel’s take on an adjustable and versatile cotton spandex bandeau dress.
Moulin Rouge! (2001)
We’re not entirely sure sporting a corset to work is the greatest idea, but Nicole Kidman’s portrayal of the most tragically beautiful woman in Paris is certainly something to be admired, as is the kaleidoscope of colors and vibrant wardrobe in this shiny razzle dazzle Baz Luhrmann masterpiece. Don’t be afraid to shop around at local vintage and costume stores to mix and match elements from different pieces for a little DIY sewing project!
Factory Girl (2006)
Marilyn Monroe, Gala Dali, Yoko Ono, all prominent muses in the works of legendary artists, but no pairing was so uniquely or boldly chic as the one between Edie Sedgewick and Andy Warhol. The Warhol Superstar certainly made a one-of-a-kind mark with her original getups in the 1960s New York Mod scene. Check out her style choices, oversized bling, big sunnies and all.
Visit Oasis for fringe earrings and other oversized accessories like the large cocktail rings Edie often sported. Pair them with a tiered fringe dress with multiple layers, tights, boots and maybe even a large fur coat for a mod vibe.
Casino Royale (2006)
Sure, we love James Bond’s perfectly tailored outfits, but this Bond girl’s sophisticated, vampy evening gown nearly struck the world-class spy speechless.
Try this halter evening gown from Sung Boutique or for more embellishment, this floor length V-neck.
Atonement (2007)
Another lovely evening gown: Keira Knightley’s slinky 1930s floor-length emerald-hued stunner dazzled us all. But we can’t all have Jacqueline Durran design a gown for us. Settle for suggested substitutes:
The Faviana replica retails at $238, but for less, settle for this one or vintage.
Confessions of a Shopaholic (2009)
Becky Bloomwood’s frilled frock is a Lanvin original, but we true shopaholics can definitely find the same look with a budget in mind.
A good sub is this eco-friendly ruffle dress from ecoSkin.
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