Introducing my Blog Topic:
The costumes in movies and TV is often not the first or even second thought to cross the average viewer’s mind, however, this is one of the very first things I am drawn to. Fashion in film has influenced and popularised many trends through the decades, just think the 90s and any trend was probably featured in a movie before it was ‘cool’. The way costume designers are able to portray a story of their own and the subtle symbolism behind design is captivating once you know what to look for. A costume designer can make even the most terrible movie bearable to watch.
The American awards season each year is a great way to appreciate that the clothing in movies and TV don’t only need to look beautiful (and sometimes not so beautiful) but they need to tell a story. Acknowledging costume design at awards shows such as the Oscars highlights the impact the industry has in TV and film. Along the same lines, the annual Met Gala is an important event for costume that is often undermined and does not receive the appreciation it deserves. Only a handful of those who take to the Met Gala red carpet each year actually follow the theme and understand the galas purpose. Costume communicates the words we don’t speak; think about the way you dress, what do you want people to see? What story do you wish to tell?
“What you wear is how you present yourself to the world, especially today when human contacts are so quick. Fashion is an instant language”
- Miuccia Prada
My aim in writing this blog is to bring to light the way in which clothing is an instant language. Even movies you may think had no significantly styled wardrobes had an immense amount of time and effort put in to make it look effortless and enhance the performance. I want to investigate costumes impact in making and breaking TV and film and highlight the importance a character’ clothing can have in creating an immersive experience.
I will review costume in film and TV, commenting on how it enhances or inhibits my own personal viewing. I will dig up the Easter eggs of costume that foreshadow and symbolise important aspects of the plot that may be missed. I will review anything and everything from my favourite childhood movie, The Parent Trap, to my now favourite T.V show, The Handmaids Tale and even share unpopular opinions about Oscar-worthy movies.
