Film, like fashion, is deeply engrained in our culture. Since the advent of cinema, wardrobe has played an integral role in the movie making process. The right attire gives movie characters a greater air of authenticity, and when dealing with time-specific dress, clothing choices can make or break a film’s credibility.
Clothing and movies have a symbiotic relationship that has been studied for years. Adrienne Munich, a fashion theory professor, has spent a great deal of time examining this “vital synergy” and further explores the connection in her new book, Fashion in Film. Munich has artfully compiled and edited a number of scholarly articles that explore the concept of fashion and cinema, drawing attention to this dramatic relationship.
Not completely convinced of how important fashion is in cinema?
Think back to Sofia Coppola’s film Marie Antoinette. The 18th-century costumes were spot-on, so much so that the movie won an Academy Award for Best Costume Design in 2006. The wardrobe was complex, inspiring, and most importantly, it transported moviegoers to an era of decadence and glamour.
Munich’s research is an excellent resource for fashion and cinema connoisseurs alike, as the book uncovers how fashion and cultural influences shape the narrative and identity of a film. Fashion in Film has not yet been released, but visit Amazon.com and pre-order your copy for delivery after June 14, 2011. Hardcover editions will sell for $80.00 and the book’s paperback counterpart is $27.95.
