7 Movies that Influenced Beauty and Fashion

The Oscars are upon us! So, while we are gearing up for Hollywood’s most glamorous night, let’s take a look back at the movies that inspired modern beauty and fashion.

Breakfast at Tiffany’s

This 1961 romantic comedy launched a thousand iconic looks. Audrey Hepburn showed us that a little black dress, pearls, and a beautiful up do is all you need to be American Royalty. Hepburn’s look as main character Holly Golightly is one of the most influential looks of the past 40 years. The fashions of Breakfast at Tiffany’s come back year after year, and continue to inspire us with their chic simplicity.

Tip: For an everyday look, wear a black boat neck shirt with pearls.

The Seven-Year Itch

If you ask someone to picture a blonde bombshell, chances are they will think of Marilyn Monroe’s character from this 1955 movie. Sleepy cat-eyes, ruby red lips, and platinum hair are the Hollywood beauty standard. The scene with the white dress on the subway grate has launched a thousand looks.

Tip: While black is the default color for most of us, white can be surprisingly sexy!

Mahogany

They call her “ Miss Ross” for a reason. Diana Ross’ 1975 movie about a poor woman who rises to fame, as a fashion designer is what fashion and beauty dreams are made of. The costumes, hair, and make up for this film paved the way for every diva look that is shown red carpet to this day.

Tip: Sometimes more is more! Don’t be afraid to layer bold accessories.

Flashdance

This 1983 film taught us that casual could be sexy! Jennifer Beals’ deconstructed grey sweatshirt created a worldwide sensation. The slouchy, tomboy couture still influences street fashion to this day.

Tip: Look for fashion inspiration everywhere! A few alterations to a man’s sweatshirt is enough to make the world take notice.

Pretty In Pink

Speaking of making your own clothes, this quintessential 80’s film propelled 80’s alternative fashion into the limelight.  The movie’s main character Andie Walsh, played by Molly Ringwald, was the girl we all wanted to be. Her eclectic look had a bold femininity with hints of vintage and punk.  Ringwald also showed us that the long held idea that redheads shouldn’t wear pink was just ridiculous.  In her home made prom dress, she got to kiss Andrew McCarthy in the rain…80’s girls will understand. 

Tip: Mix masculine and feminine for an edgy look.  Wear a boxy blazer with a flirty skirt, or a corset top with a pair of trouser.

Beetlejuice

This movie inspired certain subsets of the fashion conscious. Winona Ryder’s character, Lydia, was our dream Goth. Her look was dark, but always on point. Lydia’s elegant mixes of Victoriana with late 80’s counter culture sensibilities are still heavily influential.

Tip: Try a costume piece with your casual clothes. A beautiful steam punk or Victorian inspired top with a pair of jeans is easy and exciting fashion.

Clueless

Cher and Dionne’s flirty schoolgirl look is so fancy that it is still making headlines today. This movie brought us crop tops layered over floaty shirts, flirty plaid skirts, and over the knee socks… sound familiar?

Tip: Go to any store…it’s all there.

So, what did I miss? What movie inspired your style? What movie influenced fashion the most? Let me know!