When ‘Don’t Look Now’ hit the screens in 1973, it was not just a psychological thriller that captivated audiences, but a visual feast that left a lasting impression on fashion enthusiasts like myself. The movie, set against the hauntingly beautiful backdrop of Venice, offered a rich tapestry of colors, textures, and styles that continue to influence the fashion world. Directed by Nicolas Roeg, this film is a masterclass in atmospheric storytelling, where each frame is meticulously crafted, with the characters’ wardrobes playing a significant role in setting the tone and advancing the plot.
The enchanting city of Venice, with its crumbling palazzos and winding canals, acts as the perfect canvas for the film’s aesthetic. The characters are draped in clothing that not only reflects their personalities but also harmonizes with the city’s melancholic charm. From Laura Baxter’s chic ensembles to John Baxter’s practical attire, the movie’s wardrobe choices feel as crucial to the narrative as the eerie storyline itself.
The attention to detail in ‘Don’t Look Now’ is remarkable. Costume designer Marit Allen wove together contemporary fashion with timeless elegance, creating a look that feels both of its time and utterly modern. It’s this fusion of period-specific and classic style that makes the film’s aesthetic so enduring and why, nearly 50 years on, it continues to inspire fashion designers and stylists across the globe.
Julie Christie as Laura Baxter
Bold, Elegant, and Effortlessly Chic: Julie Christie’s portrayal of Laura Baxter in ‘Don’t Look Now’ is a masterclass in the understated style of the early ’70s. Her wardrobe encapsulates a sense of loss and longing, yet maintains an air of sophistication and strength that is truly captivating. Here are the key elements that make Laura Baxter’s style so iconic:
- The Red Raincoat: This vibrant piece is more than just a fashion statement; it’s a plot device, a symbol of foreboding that weaves its way through the film. Its striking color contrasts with the murky waters and gray skies of Venice, making Laura a beacon in the labyrinthine city.
- Printed Dresses: Laura’s dresses often feature geometric or floral prints, reflecting the era’s love for patterns. These garments are both a nod to the time period and an expression of Laura’s personality—delicate yet bold.
- High Boots: Paired with her dresses and coats, Laura often wears knee-high boots, which were a staple of ’70s fashion. They lend her a grounded look, practical for walking through the city yet stylishly in tune with the trends of the time.
Donald Sutherland as John Baxter
As John Baxter, Donald Sutherland embodies a pragmatic and focused man, absorbed in his work restoring a church. His wardrobe is functional, with a muted color palette that allows him to blend into the background, reflecting his internal state of mind. His style, though not flashy, is a significant part of the film’s aesthetic:
- Corduroy and Tweed Jackets: These textured pieces suggest a certain ruggedness and reliability in John’s character. They are practical for his architectural work and offer a visual contrast to Laura’s more polished looks.
- Turtlenecks and Knitwear: John is often seen in turtlenecks and heavy knit sweaters, giving him a scholarly appearance. This choice of clothing also adds a layer of warmth, both literal and metaphorical, against the cold Venetian atmosphere.
- Neutral Tones: John’s color scheme is predominantly neutral—browns, grays, and blues—which helps him to harmonize with the stonework of the churches and the shadowy corners of Venice. It’s a subtle nod to his role as the stabilizing force within the film’s turbulent emotional landscape.
Hilary Mason as Heather
Hilary Mason’s portrayal of Heather, the blind psychic, is compelling not only for her performance but also for her distinctive look. Heather’s style is characterized by layers and textures, creating an aura of mystery that is integral to her character:
- Layered Fabrics: Heather is often seen in layered, flowing garments that add to her ethereal presence. These fabrics move with her, suggesting a fluidity and a connection to the supernatural elements of the story.
- Earthy Tones: Her wardrobe consists of earthy tones—browns, greens, and oranges—that reflect her grounded nature and psychic abilities. These colors blend with the autumnal palette of Venice, further integrating her character into the fabric of the film.
- Accessories: Heather’s accessories, such as her headscarves and jewelry, are bohemian and indicative of her openness to the spiritual world. They also serve to accentuate her blindness, drawing attention to her face and the wisdom in her unseeing eyes.
Clelia Matania as Wendy
Wendy, played by Clelia Matania, is a supporting character who nonetheless leaves an indelible mark on the film’s aesthetic. Her style is sensible and modest, reflecting her role as a friend and confidant to the Baxters:
- Practical Outfits: Wendy’s clothing is practical and unpretentious. She favors simple blouses and skirts that suggest a woman who is more concerned with comfort and function than with following the latest trends.
- Soft Colors: The soft pastels and neutral shades in Wendy’s wardrobe contrast with the more vivid colors worn by Laura, highlighting the difference in their personalities and their roles in the narrative.
- Subtle Details: Wendy’s clothing may not be flashy, but it’s the subtle details—like the brooches she wears—that offer a glimpse into her character. These small touches hint at a depth and a history to Wendy that the film only lightly touches on.
Massimo Serato as Bishop Barbarrigo
Bishop Barbarrigo, played by Massimo Serato, is a figure of authority in the film, and his wardrobe reflects his status within the church and the community:
- Ecclesiastical Robes: As a bishop, Barbarrigo is mostly seen in his ecclesiastical robes. These garments are not just ceremonial but also serve to establish his power and influence over John and the restoration project.
- Rich Colors and Fabrics: The rich colors and luxurious fabrics of his vestments stand out against the decaying backdrop of Venice, symbolizing the enduring power of the church amidst the chaos of the city and the lives of the characters.
- Imposing Presence: The bishop’s styling—his mitre, his rings, and the ornate details of his robes—creates an imposing presence that adds to the film’s atmosphere of unease and foreboding.
Renato Scarpa as Inspector Longhi
Inspector Longhi, played by Renato Scarpa, is a character whose style is as distinctive as his role in the narrative. His clothing is a blend of professional and distinctly Italian flair:
- Tailored Suits: Longhi is almost always seen in tailored suits that are sharp and well-fitted, reflecting his position as a man of the law. The suits are a visual cue to his authority and his dedication to uncovering the truth.
- Trench Coats: His trench coats are reminiscent of the classic detective look, adding a layer of intrigue to his character. They also serve a practical purpose in the damp Venetian climate.
- Subdued Palette: Like John Baxter, Longhi’s color palette is subdued, allowing him to appear both authoritative and unobtrusive in his investigative role. His style is understated yet calculated, much like his approach to his work.
Giorgio Trestini as Workman
Giorgio Trestini’s character, the workman, is a peripheral yet visually memorable presence in the film. His wardrobe is utilitarian and rugged, reflecting his labor-intensive role:
- Workwear: The workman is dressed in clothing that is durable and functional. His workwear—a combination of overalls and sturdy shirts—is designed for physical labor and stands in contrast to the more refined attire of the main characters.
- Neutral and Dark Tones: His color choices are neutral and dark, allowing him to blend into the background of the city and the church where he works. His presence is often felt more than seen, and his wardrobe plays a big part in that.
- Simple Aesthetic: There is a simplicity to the workman’s aesthetic that is poignant. His unadorned style speaks to his place in the social hierarchy of Venice and the film’s exploration of class and status.
Styling Tips for Different Occasions
Navigating the world of style can be as complex as deciphering a psychological thriller. But fear not, for I have curated some styling tips for different occasions, inspired by the timeless fashion of ‘Don’t Look Now’. Whether you’re attending a formal event or just going about your day, these tips will help you channel your inner movie star with a nod to the classic film.
Formal Occasions:
- Elegant Coats: Take a page from Laura Baxter’s book and opt for a statement coat in a bold color. A well-tailored red trench coat can elevate any evening dress and make you stand out in a crowd.
- Tailored Pieces: Channel John Baxter’s professional look with crisp, tailored suits. A sharp blazer or a fitted dress with clean lines will give you that air of sophistication.
- Luxurious Fabrics: Incorporate rich fabrics like silk or velvet to mirror the opulence of Bishop Barbarrigo’s robes. A velvet suit or a silk scarf can add a touch of luxury to your formal attire.
Casual Outings:
- Bohemian Layers: Embrace Heather’s bohemian vibe with layered, flowy garments in earthy tones. A maxi skirt paired with a loose blouse can create a relaxed yet chic look.
- Knitwear and Denim: Take inspiration from John Baxter’s casual knitwear by pairing a cozy sweater with your favorite pair of jeans. It’s a simple combination that exudes comfort and style.
- Practical Boots: Like Laura Baxter, don’t underestimate the power of a great pair of boots. They’re perfect for a day of exploring the city and add an edge to any casual outfit.
Workwear:
- Smart Separates: Mix and match smart separates like Wendy for a work-appropriate look that’s still stylish. A pencil skirt with a tucked-in blouse or a pair of well-cut trousers with a blazer can create a professional yet fashionable ensemble.
- Classic Trench: A trench coat is as versatile as it is timeless. It’s the perfect outerwear for a work setting, just like Inspector Longhi’s choice of coat.
- Subtle Accessories: Add personality to your workwear with subtle accessories, like a vintage brooch or a leather satchel, to give your outfit a unique touch.
Get the Look: Summary of Outfits and Where to Buy Them
Achieving the ‘Don’t Look Now’ aesthetic is all about balancing the film’s vintage charm with modern sensibilities. Here’s a summary of the key outfits inspired by the characters and tips on where to buy similar pieces:
Laura Baxter’s Chic Style:
- The Statement Coat: Look for a knee-length red trench coat to capture Laura’s iconic look. Retailers like Zara or Nordstrom often carry similar styles.
- Printed Midi Dresses: For Laura’s printed dresses, check out brands like Reformation or Anthropologie for a modern take on ’70s patterns.
- Knee-High Boots: A pair of sleek knee-high boots can be found at stores like DSW or Steve Madden, perfect for recreating Laura’s practical yet stylish footwear.
John Baxter’s Functional Attire:
- Corduroy Jackets: To emulate John’s textured jackets, browse through the collections at J.Crew or Levi’s for durable and fashionable corduroy options.
- Turtlenecks and Knits: For knitwear, Uniqlo and Banana Republic offer a range of turtlenecks and sweaters that blend comfort with a professional edge.
Heather’s Mystical Layers:
- Flowing Garments: Free People and ASOS are great places to find bohemian, layered pieces that reflect Heather’s spiritual style.
- Earthy Accessories: Accessorize with earth-toned jewelry and scarves from Etsy or local craft markets to add a touch of Heather’s psychic flair to your outfit.
How to Include ‘Don’t Look Now’ Elements in Daily Outfits
Incorporating elements from ‘Don’t Look Now’ into your daily wardrobe can be as simple as being mindful of color, texture, and silhouette. Here’s how to subtly weave the film’s aesthetic into your everyday style:
- Color Palette: Embrace the film’s rich color palette by introducing bold reds, deep greens, and warm oranges into your wardrobe through statement pieces or accessories.
- Texture: Mix textures like corduroy, tweed, and silk to add depth to your outfits, much like the varied fabrics seen throughout the film.
- Silhouettes: Opt for tailored, structured pieces that echo the film’s ’70s influence, such as high-waisted trousers or A-line skirts, to create a look that’s both nostalgic and contemporary.
Conclusion: Embrace Your Inner Movie Star
The ‘Don’t Look Now (1973)’ aesthetic is more than just a moment in cinematic fashion history; it’s a timeless source of inspiration for anyone looking to add depth and drama to their personal style. By breaking down the character analysis and style, we can extract elements that resonate with us and incorporate them into our wardrobes in a meaningful way.
Remember that fashion is about expressing who you are and how you feel, and sometimes, it takes a little cinematic magic to help us uncover our true style. So go ahead, embrace your inner movie star, and let the compelling aesthetic of ‘Don’t Look Now’ guide you to sartorial greatness.
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