When designing a costume to characterize old Hollywood, draw inspiration and take tips from leading-lady icons such as Clara Bow, Audrey Hepburn, Rita Hayworth and Lena Horne to name a few. Check out the photographs from a certain era of interest, and work with a single image. Consider the complete package when creating an old Hollywood elegance from the hair to the feet. Devote time to the icon and costume for authenticity, which adds to the enjoyment. Add a modern edge to the costume by incorporating a contemporary element.
1920s Hollywood Luminary
Josephine Baker started out as a chorus girl, and fans loved her for her personal sense of style and extravagant costumes. Costumes should capture the 1920s jazz and cabaret musical scene or the era of the Harlem Renaissance. The look is sultry but androgynous with flapper dresses that had a near-nude look and gave the impression of a masculine silhouette. Or, another take on Old Hollywood is an art deco inspired dress that has an angular drape with a low-waist in satin. Headdresses can include tiaras and toques.
John Galliano's 2007 ready-to-wear collection presented a modern take on the 1920s Old Hollywood fashion.
1930s Hollywood Femininity
During the Golden Age of 1930s Hollywood, movie-goers admired the stunning Swedish actress Greta Garbo. This was the era of Hollywood femininity.
The old Hollywood evening glamour of Garbo is a vintage gown that has a bias cut. The dress is flowing in silk, crepe, chiffon or satin with a halter neck. A wrap or feather boa along with costume or art deco jewelry accessorizes the look. Rhinestones or feathers are ornaments for the hair.
The Alberta Ferretti and Badgley Mischka Fall 2007 ready-to-wear collections exemplify the 1930s old Hollywood glamour with a contemporary adaptation.
1940s Hollywood Pin-Up
Rita Hayworth became the 1940s femme fatale and glamour pin-up girl of old Hollywood.
The designer gown fashioned by Jean Louis in the film "Gilda" exhibits the old Hollywood allure of the 1940s. The long, strapless "Gilda" gown was in satin with a twisted bodice and a front slit that extended to the thigh. A faux fur wrap and long satin opera gloves make the costume complete.
Another suggestion is the lavish gowns worn in "Down to Earth," which exemplify glamorous old Hollywood. Gowns featured a princess front and back panel with gathers at the waist.
Contemporary designers that compare to Jean Louis for eveningwear but add a fresh stylishness are Vera Wang, Nicole Miller and A.B.S., to name a few.
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