Movies provide hours of entertainment for us in many ways, be it comedy, drama or action. One thing that all movies have in common are costumes. Designers spend their lives creating the perfect outfits for movie characters, and one of the most spectacular outcomes of their work is fancy dresses. Dresses for women in the movies are often imitated, so it is important to recognize the origins.
Cecilia's Green Dress in "Atonement"
This floor-length dress, worn by Keira Knightly in the film's pivotal love scene, has been described as the best movie costume in history. Made of silk satin, the emerald green color was chosen by the designer, Jacqueline Durran, to symbolize temptation. Loose-fitting with spaghetti straps and a flowing train, this dress accentuated Knightly's lithe form and femininity.
Lisa's Paris Dress in "Rear Window"
Designed by Edith Head for the 1955 movie "Rear Window," this black and white dress is quintessential 1950s formal. The plain black bodice is close-fitting and tucked at the waist by a black patent leather belt. The spectacular skirt is layers of chiffon and tulle, with black branch detail starting at the waist and flowing down. White gloves and a white chiffon wrap complete the outfit. The dress is ideal for the character of Lisa Fremont, the New York fashion model portrayed by Grace Kelly. It displays perfect femininity as well as hinting at the more adventurous character she is evolving into as the film progresses.
Scarlett's Barbecue Dress in "Gone With the Wind"
In the barbecue scenes of "Gone With the Wind," Vivien Leigh as Scarlett O' Hara wears a dress that has been imitated countless times since the film's first release in 1939. A green and white floral organza skirt is the perfect choice to convey Scarlett's 16-year-old naive personality, while the low-cut, off-the-shoulder, close-fitting bodice contradicts this, making it clear that Scarlett has an agenda beyond flirting with the men at the barbecue. The spring-like quality of the dress can also be considered a symbol of the happy time before the Civil War started, before violence and horror destroyed everything.
Rose's Jump Dress in "Titanic"
Kate Winslet's elegant dress from the suicide attempt scene in the movie "Titanic" is often imitated for proms or bridesmaids. Red silk satin, overlaid with black tulle and net covered with beading comprise the bodice. The skirt is red silk with two over-layers of black tulle. Eight beaded medallions line the bottom and are finished with beaded fringe. This dress, when placed next to the humble attire of the character of Jack, displays the stark economic difference between the first-class and third-class passengers on the Titanic.
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