When you hear the words, Film Noir what actresses immediately come into mind? Joan Crawford? Barbara Stanwyck? Joan Bennett? Ingrid Bergman? Ida Lupino? Gloria Grahame? Gene Tierney? Lizbeth Scott? Jean Simmons? Lauren Bacall? I’m sure at least one of these actresses is familiar to you. When you think of Film Noir fashion, these women are true icons! In this episode, we will look at some of the incredible garments worn by these women in this dark and moody genre.
Before I get started, for those who aren’t familiar with Film Noir, I wanted to give a brief overview of what it is and point out that Film Noir wasn’t just popular during the 1940s; there are many incredible movies in the 1950s as well.
What is Film Noir?
Film Noir is a style of Hollywood crime drama that emphasizes cynical attitudes and motivations. The 1940s and 1950s are generally regarded as the “classic period” of American Film Noir. Film Noir of this era is associated with a low-key, black-and-white visual style that has roots in German expressionist cinematography. Many of the prototypical stories and attitudes expressed in classic noir derive from the hardboiled school of crime fiction that emerged in the United States during the Great Depression, known as noir fiction. (Wikipedia)
As I mentioned in my intro, some actresses immediately come to mind when you think of Film Noir. However, so many more talented women graced the big screen. Unfortunately, I won’t have time to show you the wonderful wardrobes of all of them; rather, I am going to focus on a few actresses and particular movies.
Barbara Stanwyck
First up, I am starting with who I consider the Queen of Film Noir, Barbara Stanwyck.
Barbara is most likely best known for her sassy characters in pre-code movies such as Baby Face, but she is also an iconic Film Noir actress. The movie wardrobe I am going to focus on today is from the movie Double Indemnity. The one and only Edith Head styled Barbara’s wardrobe.
Though colourized, this poster also shows her sexy style. The turtle neck with the A-line skirt! Classic!
Next up is this fun frilly number! I love that the frill is the centre piece of the dress.
Then we have the iconic little black dress. These are often seen in noir, although the term “little black dress” gained more fame in the 1950s due to Audrey Hepburn.
And the blouses, we can’t forget the blouses! I love the tropical print.
Ida Lupino
Next, I want to talk about the prolific Ida Lupino. She was the absolute trifecta of Hollywood talent. She was an actress, Director, and Writer. Ida is an inspiration to me on so many levels. Her wardrobe in the 1941 classic High Sierra is simple and wonderful. It’s a mix of blouses, trousers, a classic coat, and of course… frills! Milo Anderson styled Ida’s wardrobe
I want to start off with blouses. When we think of women’s clothing from the 1940s, we immediately visualize those big, boxy shoulders. Especially on suit jackets and coats. That look didn’t emerge until the mid-1940s. At the beginning of the 1940s, styles were still transitioning from the 1930s with a softer look. Slightly puffy shoulders and more romantic styles. High Sierra was made in 1941, so we are still seeing that late 1930s influence.
Trousers are also very present in this movie. I love me a good 1940s wide-legged trouser.
The most iconic piece of wardrobe for me is the coat! I love that wide collar and the tie belt!
Ingrid Bergman
We can’t talk about Film Noir without mentioning the movie Casablanca and, of course, Ingrid Bergman!
The piece that stands out the most in this movie is the hat!
The classic 2-piece suit is also an iconic look in this movie and many Film Noir movies.
Of course, I also need to talk about this pinafore-style dress. I’m not sure if it is one or two pieces, but look how lovely the stripes and plain colour dress work together.
Gene Tierney
I have such a soft spot for the movie Laura (1944). Not just because it stars Gene Tierney, but also because it stars my favourite ghoul, Vincent Price. This movie has an incredible cast, including Clifton Webb and Dana Andrews. However, this is about Gene.
One of my favourite wardrobe pieces in this movie is the dresses. They are romantic, floaty, and sexy without being over the top. Designer Bonnie Cashin did an incredible job dressing the character Laura.
Joan Crawford
As we begin to round out Film Noir of the 1940s, we have to chat about an actress who had covered many genres by the time the 1940s rolled around, including Silent Cinema and Pre-code. I am, of course, talking about the incredible Joan Crawford!
She starred in many Film Noir, but the wardrobe that stands out for me is from the movie Mildred Pierce (1945)! Once again, we see Milo Anderson as the costume designer.
Throughout this entire movie, you see that famous silhouette, the large shoulders! Of all actresses, Joan Crawford wore it best!
I am going to show you a few of my favourite pieces from the movie, including this polkadot number.
Marie Windsor
I am going to end this with one of my favourite noirs from the 1950s. I know! Some of you are likely yelling, What about Lauren Bacall, Lizbeth Scott, Jean Simmons, and Gloria Grahame, plus the very long list of other actresses! I would love to chat about them, too, but this video would be too long. If you want a second part, let me know, and I will do more.
One of my favourite actresses from the 1950s is the very sexy Marie Windsor. If one of her movies is on, no matter when it starts, I will watch it. For this episode, we will talk about the 1956 movie, The Killing. The wardrobe was skillfully done by designer Jack Masters
One thing that the 1950s did well was lingerie. Lower-budget movies, like many noirs, have some of the most desirable, flowing pieces I’ve ever seen. Marie Windsor also wears it well!
I hope you enjoyed my latest episode! If you did, please give me a thumbs up, subscribe, and let me know your favourite Film Noir movie or costume!
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