Fashion has always played a significant role in shaping the world of film, with some movies becoming synonymous with certain styles and trends. From vintage elegance to cutting-edge couture, here are 15 films that have left an indelible mark on the fashion world, inspiring generations of fashionistas.
1. Breakfast at Tiffany’s (1961)
Iconic Look: Holly Golightly’s little black dress and pearls
Audrey Hepburn’s Givenchy-designed black dress, oversized sunglasses, and elegant pearls became a global fashion sensation, making the little black dress an eternal wardrobe staple. Her style in the film is a masterclass in timeless elegance.
2. The Devil Wears Prada (2006)
Iconic Look: Miranda Priestly’s chic power suits
This film is a love letter to high fashion, with costumes by Patricia Field. Meryl Streep’s character, Miranda Priestly, embodied high-fashion authority, while Anne Hathaway’s Andy Sachs transformed with trendy looks from Chanel, Dolce & Gabbana, and more, setting new office fashion standards.
3. Clueless (1995)
Iconic Look: Cher’s yellow plaid outfit
Cher Horowitz’s wardrobe defined ’90s style, with bold plaid, mini skirts, knee-high socks, and countless designer pieces. The yellow plaid outfit became especially iconic, cementing Clueless as one of the most fashion-forward films of the decade.
4. Sex and the City (2008)
Iconic Look: Carrie’s Vivienne Westwood wedding dress
Based on the popular TV series, this film brought unforgettable fashion moments. Sarah Jessica Parker’s character, Carrie Bradshaw, wore high fashion with eclectic style, including her iconic Vivienne Westwood wedding gown, making it an emblem of bridal couture.
5. Atonement (2007)
Iconic Look: Cecilia’s green silk dress
Keira Knightley’s emerald green satin gown by Jacqueline Durran was unforgettable. The dress not only became a hallmark of cinematic fashion but also embodied the character’s elegance and sophistication, inspiring many similar styles in the fashion world.
6. The Great Gatsby (2013)
Iconic Look: Daisy Buchanan’s flapper dresses
With designs by Miuccia Prada and Catherine Martin, this adaptation of The Great Gatsby brought the Roaring Twenties to life. The film’s costumes, especially Daisy’s lavish flapper dresses, pearl accessories, and headpieces, helped revive the elegance of 1920s fashion.
7. Black Panther (2018)
Iconic Look: T’Challa’s regal attire and Wakandan styles
Ruth E. Carter’s costume design blended African tribal influences with futuristic touches, creating a distinctive, Afro-futuristic look. From T’Challa’s regal attire to the Dora Milaje’s armor, Black Panther redefined superhero fashion and celebrated African culture.
8. Moulin Rouge! (2001)
Iconic Look: Satine’s sparkling showgirl costumes
Catherine Martin’s costumes for Moulin Rouge! mixed historical and fantasy elements, especially in Satine’s glamorous showgirl outfits. Lavish, colorful, and sparkling, the costumes contributed to the film’s unique, decadent style.
9. Annie Hall (1977)
Iconic Look: Annie’s tomboyish menswear style
Diane Keaton’s character, Annie Hall, popularized androgynous fashion with oversized blazers, vests, and ties. Her menswear-inspired looks, designed by Ralph Lauren, sparked a trend for women’s suiting that’s still relevant today.
10. Funny Face (1957)
Iconic Look: Jo Stockton’s black turtleneck and cigarette pants
Audrey Hepburn’s Parisian looks in Funny Face—especially the iconic black turtleneck, cigarette pants, and ballet flats—embody effortless chic. Her outfits, designed by Hubert de Givenchy, remain symbols of Parisian style and simplicity.
11. American Hustle (2013)
Iconic Look: Glamorous ’70s styles
Michael Wilkinson’s costumes perfectly captured the glitz of 1970s fashion, with Amy Adams and Jennifer Lawrence donning plunging necklines, sequins, and fur. The film revived disco-era glamour, with bold colors and daring silhouettes.
12. Pulp Fiction (1994)
Iconic Look: Mia Wallace’s white shirt and black bob
Uma Thurman’s character, Mia Wallace, became an instant style icon with her simple yet edgy look. Her black bob haircut, white button-down, black trousers, and red lipstick created a unique aesthetic that’s often imitated and instantly recognizable.
13. Marie Antoinette (2006)
Iconic Look: Exquisite Rococo dresses and pastel palette
Sophia Coppola’s Marie Antoinette modernized the French queen’s life with opulent, pastel-colored costumes by Milena Canonero. The film’s lush Rococo dresses, oversized wigs, and playful aesthetic redefined historical costume drama, making it a visual delight.
14. Atomic Blonde (2017)
Iconic Look: Lorraine’s sleek spy wardrobe
Charlize Theron’s Lorraine Broughton sports a collection of chic, edgy outfits that combine high fashion with a Cold War aesthetic. Her minimalist, monochromatic wardrobe of trench coats, thigh-high boots, and blonde bob became iconic and defined the spy look with modern flair.
15. The Matrix (1999)
Iconic Look: Neo’s black trench coat and sunglasses
The Matrix’s futuristic, cyberpunk style is instantly recognizable. Neo’s long black coat, black leather, and sunglasses became a symbol of cool, minimalist fashion, influencing streetwear and high fashion with its sleek, monochromatic look.
These films not only created iconic looks but also inspired fashion trends that continue to influence style today. From old Hollywood glamour to futuristic chic, these movies showcase how costume design can make a lasting impact and turn characters into fashion icons.
