A look at costume design from the movies Marie Antoinette (2006), Chicago (2002) and Cruella (2021).
MARIE ANTOINETTE (2006)
COSTUME DESIGNER: Milena Canonero
TIME PERIOD: 18th Century
CAST: Kirsten Dunst, Jason Schwartzman, Rose Byrne, Jamie Dornan
The costume design in Marie Antoinette is truly stunning! From the intricate details of the gowns and court dress to the period hairstyles and accessories, the costume design really brings the era to life. The colours are incredibly vibrant and the fabrics are luxurious and sumptuous. The costume designer, Milena Canonero, did an exceptional job of capturing the opulence and grandeur of the period in her design. She also managed to create a style that was unique to the character of Marie Antoinette, making her look iconic and distinctive. It really is a beautiful piece of work with amazing costume design and definitely worth a watch.
Various scenes from Marie Antoinette Leigh Johnson/Sony Pictures
Famous for her well-known supposed phrase "let them eat cake", Marie Antoinette's wardrobe throughout the film reflects a candy and dessert like colour palette. Paired with amazing scenery and visuals the film won an Oscar for Best Costume Design.
Kirsten Dunst as Marie Antoinette Leigh Johnson/Sony Pictures
CHICAGO (2002)
COSTUME DESIGNER: Colleen Atwood
TIME PERIOD: 1920's/1930's
CAST: Renee Zellweger, Catherine Zeta-Jones, Richard Gere, Queen Latifah
The costume design team for the film was led by renowned costume designer Colleen Atwood. She has won multiple Academy Awards for her work, and the costumes for this movie were no exception. The costumes for the movie were inspired by the 1920s and 30s, which gave them a classic, timeless look. Atwood used a lot of bold colours and textures, as well as intricate details, to create the perfect look for each character.
Various scenes from Chicago Miramax Films
The colour palettes chosen for each character throughout the movie add to the dramatic tone of each scene. At first, the main character Roxy can often be seen in skin tone garments reflecting her innocence and lack of exposure to glamorous life. On the other hand many of the characters in prison or on trial are dressed in black suits and garments with straight lines to reflect the mood of each scenario and musical number. This film won the Oscar for Best Costume Design in 2003.
Catherine Zeta-Jones, Richard Gere and Renee Zellwegger in promotional shot for Chicago Miramax Films
CRUELLA (2021)
COSTUME DESIGNER: Jenny Beavan
TIME PERIOD: 1960's-1970's
CAST: Emma Stone, Emma Thompson, Joel Fry, Mark Strong
The costume design in Cruella is absolutely stunning! From Cruella's iconic black and white ensemble to the other characters' vibrant and bold looks, each outfit has been carefully thought out to bring each character to life. The attention to detail in the costumes is remarkable - the fabrics, the textures, the cuts - everything works together to create a unique and memorable style. It's clear that the costume designers worked hard to create a look that is both iconic and timeless. From the preppy-chic '60s vibes to the modern streetwear, the costume design in Cruella is truly one-of-a-kind.
Various scenes from Cruella (Disney)
Jenny Beavan had already been nominated for Best Costume Design 10 times and won twice before her work in Cruella for which she also won the award. Not only did Beavan design the main costumes for Stone and Thompson but she also dressed hundreds of extras in the streets of London to match the 1970's time period. Here's some illustrations of the main looks from the film by Thom Botwood.
Limo Dress Thom Botwood
Dumpster Dress Thom Botwood
Illustration by Thom Botwood