In Costume

It’s summertime–and movie time. Be inspired by Hollywood costume designs of yesterday and today. Wear something cinematic from Jane’s Vanity.

We get the idea from Maureen Dowd’s charming New York Times profile of movie and theater costume designer Ann Roth. Although Roth is behind the costumes for this summer’s big hit “Barbie,” we prefer to begin a bit further back:

What could be more fabulous than Roth’s choice of yellow silk pajamas for Peter Sellers in the 1964 movie “The World of Henry Orient?” You–in Gilda & Pearl’s Kitty Marabou Silk Pajama in Hollywood Rose pink.

Or, you could match Jane Fonda’s pajama top in 1971’s “Klute,” also costumed by Ann Roth. Slither into the classically tailored button-down silk Pajama from Morpho + Luna. Look intellectual in the geometric Dancing Butterflies print of black, grey, and ivory. Or go mysterious in the Art Nouveau floral print Jardin de Nuit, in shades of teal, blue, green, grey, and white.

When outfitting Fonda for “Klute,” Roth chose items from the actress’s own hip closet. Their collaboration resulted in a body-con style that still reverberates today. Get the look in a tight sweater such as Dana Pisarra’s Bordeaux Rib Silk Top.  

Roth worked with director Mike Nichols in such classics as “Working Girl,” 1988. Picture yourself in the movie as Melanie Griffith as she raids the closet of her boss, Sigorney Weaver, wearing only a black lingerie set. Let it be the fantastic Taryn Winters Margot Beaded Lingerie Set with screen appeal to spare. (Basically, this movie is all about underwear).

And then there’s “Mamma Mia,” 2008. Be ready to boogie on a Greek island in one of the fabulous new summer prints from Zoelle. Perhaps the Malachite Butterfly Reversible Hi-Low Dress in permanently pleated chiffon with scarf hem. Or the gown, or the separates. Or all! 

And, what about “Barbie?” No problemo. Barbie, Ann Roth, and you would definitely choose the Karolina Laskowska Danainae Lingerie set in whisper-weight pink Chantilly lace and ultra-soft trim in orange and pink. Costume designers know that even if it doesn’t show…it shows. 

Make a scene this summer, with credits rolling for Jane’s Vanity.