Welcome, fellow fashion enthusiasts and movie buffs! Today, we’ll be dissecting the sartorial splendour of one of the most stylish and underrated films of the 21st century – ‘Mesrine: Killer Instinct (2008)’. This French biographical crime film, directed by Jean-Franí§ois Richet, is a visual delight, with an aesthetic that’s both captivating and inspiring. The film’s style is as compelling as its narrative, making it a goldmine for our fashion exploration.
‘Mesrine: Killer Instinct’, based on the life of notorious French gangster Jacques Mesrine, is a feast of period-specific fashion. The 60s-70s era is beautifully captured through the characters’ wardrobes, exuding an air of rebellion, flamboyance, and effortless chic. The movie’s visual narrative is as strong as its verbal one, providing a rich canvas of style cues for us to delve into.
In this article, we’ll be doing a thorough Character Analysis and Style Breakdown, giving you an Overview of ‘Mesrine: Killer Instinct (2008)’ Aesthetic. We’ll examine each character’s unique style and provide tips on how you can incorporate these elements into your wardrobe. So, buckle up, as we embark on this fashion-forward journey!
Character Analysis and Style Breakdown: An Overview
Before we dive into each character’s style, let’s take a quick glance at the aesthetics of ‘Mesrine: Killer Instinct.’ The film’s wardrobe is a visual diary of the late 60s and early 70s fashion, marked by:
- Turtleneck Sweaters: A staple of the era, these appear frequently in the film, paired with suits, leather jackets, or on their own.
- Bold Patterns: From Mesrine’s flamboyant shirts to Jeanne’s patterned dresses, bold prints are a recurring feature.
- Wide Lapel Suits: The wide lapel suits, sported by most male characters, scream 70s chic.
- Mini Skirts and Dresses: The women of ‘Mesrine: Killer Instinct’ often sport mini skirts and dresses, highlighting the era’s liberation of women’s fashion.
- Leather Jackets: A symbol of rebellion and coolness, the leather jacket is a key component of the film’s aesthetic.
Now, let’s delve into each character’s style!
Vincent Cassel as Jacques Mesrine
As we dress like Vincent Cassel as Jacques Mesrine and detail the key elements of their outfit, we notice a blend of sophistication and rebellion. His wardrobe consists of:
- Bold Printed Shirts: Mesrine’s love for flamboyance is evident in his choice of bold, colourful shirts.
- Turtleneck Sweaters: These are a staple in his wardrobe, often worn under suits or with a leather jacket.
- Wide Lapel Suits: Mesrine’s suits exude a 70s vibe, thanks to their wide lapels and earthy tones.
- Leather Jackets: An embodiment of his rebellious spirit, Mesrine’s leather jackets are a key part of his aesthetic.
Cécile de France as Jeanne Schneider
When we look at Cécile de France as Jeanne Schneider (as Cécile De France), we see a mix of feminine charm and a daring spirit. Her style includes:
- Mini Dresses: Jeanne’s wardrobe is filled with mini dresses, often in bold prints or bright colours.
- High Boots: A staple of the 70s, Jeanne often pairs her dresses with high boots.
- Bold Accessories: From oversized sunglasses to statement jewellery, Jeanne’s love for bold accessories is clear.
Gérard Depardieu as Guido
Gérard Depardieu as Guido presents a mix of classic and flamboyant style. His aesthetic includes:
- Three-Piece Suits: Guido often sports classic three-piece suits, projecting an image of power and sophistication.
- Statement Ties: His ties, often in bold prints or colours, add a touch of flamboyance to his look.
Gilles Lellouche as Paul
Gilles Lellouche as Paul embodies a more casual, rugged style. His wardrobe includes:
- Denim: Paul’s wardrobe features a lot of denim, from jackets to jeans.
- Casual Shirts: He often wears casual, button-down shirts, adding a laid-back vibe to his look.
Roy Dupuis as Jean-Paul Mercier
Roy Dupuis as Jean-Paul Mercier sports a conservative yet stylish look. His style includes:
- Sweater Vests: A mainstay in his wardrobe, these are often worn over button-down shirts.
- Brown Tones: His wardrobe features a lot of earthy, brown tones, giving it a warm, autumnal feel.
Elena Anaya as Sofia
Elena Anaya as Sofia embodies a feminine, elegant style. Her wardrobe includes:
- Floral Dresses: Sofia often sports floral dresses, adding a feminine touch to her look.
- Pearl Accessories: Pearls are a recurring element in her wardrobe, adding a touch of elegance.
Florence Thomassin as Sarah
Florence Thomassin as Sarah sports a glamorous, high-fashion look. Her style includes:
- Statement Coats: Sarah’s wardrobe features several statement coats, often in bold prints or bright colours.
- High Fashion Accessories: From designer handbags to high-end jewellery, Sarah’s accessories are always on-trend.
Styling Tips for Different Occasions: Inspired by ‘Mesrine: Killer Instinct (2008)’
The film offers a plethora of Styling Tips for Different Occasions:
- Casual Outing: Opt for a denim jacket and casual shirt combo like Paul.
- Business Meeting: A three-piece suit like Guido’s will give you a polished look.
- Date Night: A floral dress like Sofia’s is perfect for a romantic outing.
- Party Time: Channel your inner Sarah with a statement coat and high-end accessories.
Get the Look: Summary of Outfits and Where to Buy Them
To get the look and summary of outfits and where to buy them, try online vintage shops, thrift stores, or even your parents’ closets! Brands like ASOS and Zara often carry 70s-inspired pieces.
How to Include Elements of ‘Mesrine: Killer Instinct (2008)’ in Your Wardrobe
Here’s how to include elements of the film in your wardrobe:
- Invest in Classics: Items like turtleneck sweaters and leather jackets are timeless and versatile.
- Play with Patterns: Don’t shy away from bold patterns and prints.
- Accessorize: Accessories can completely transform a look. Choose statement pieces that reflect your personality.
Conclusion
‘Mesrine: Killer Instinct (2008)’ is more than just a crime biopic; it’s a rich source of fashion inspiration. From the rebellious chic of Jacques Mesrine to the feminine charm of Sofia, the film’s characters offer a plethora of style cues to incorporate into your own wardrobe. So why not take a leaf out of their fashion book and pep up your style?
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