When the credits rolled on ‘Things Heard & Seen’, I was left with more than just the echoes of a haunting tale; I was utterly mesmerized by the film’s aesthetic—its chillingly chic allure that clung to the characters as closely as their secrets. Directed by Shari Springer Berman and Robert Pulcini, this film not only serves chills down the spine but provides a feast for the sartorially inclined. And who am I, if not a connoisseur of the crossover between cinematic art and fashion?
The film’s setting in 1980’s upstate New York is ripe with period-specific nuances, and its characters, donned in visually textured ensembles, weave a narrative that’s as much about style as it is about suspense. With a background in fashion blogging and a penchant for silver-screen glam, I find myself compelled to dissect the wardrobe of this psychological thriller.
In my deep dive, we’ll explore the garments that drape the complex personalities of ‘Things Heard & Seen’, understanding the way fashion functions as an extension of each character. So, fasten your seatbelts and prepare for a sartorial journey into the heart of this eerie masterpiece.
Understanding the Aesthetic of ‘Things Heard & Seen (2021)’
- The Timeless Nature of the 80s Revival: The 1980s have made a formidable comeback in recent years, and ‘Things Heard & Seen’ capitalizes on this resurgence. The film’s wardrobe is infused with vintage charm, boasting silhouettes and patterns that evoke a sense of nostalgia while remaining timeless.
- The Rural Refinement: Set against a rural backdrop, the film’s aesthetic is a blend of rustic simplicity and understated elegance. From chunky knitwear to soft denim, the characters are enveloped in layers that speak to both their personal stories and the landscape they inhabit.
- The Ghostly Glamour: There’s an ethereal quality to the film’s fashion, an otherworldly glamour that mirrors the supernatural elements of the plot. Light, flowing fabrics and a muted color palette lend the characters a spectral beauty, as if they’re walking the line between this world and another.
Understanding the aesthetic is crucial in analyzing the characters’ styles. It’s a meticulous blend of time and place, with a dash of the supernatural. The clothing isn’t just about looking good; it’s about storytelling, with each thread contributing to the larger narrative tapestry.
James Norton as George Claire
- The Charismatic Academic: James Norton’s portrayal of George Claire is nothing short of compelling. As an art history professor, his wardrobe exudes intellectual charm—tweed jackets, knitted vests, and crisp shirts. The look is classic academia with a hint of deception lurking beneath.
- The Devil in the Details: George’s attire is conventional, yet each piece is selected with purpose. The leather elbow patches on his blazers, the strategic use of scarves—these choices signal a man who is meticulous yet masking his true nature. His clothing is a facade, much like his character.
- The Faux Family Man: As a husband and father, George’s style reflects a veneer of familial dedication. Sweaters tied over the shoulders, light-washed jeans, and boat shoes paint the picture of an idyllic family man. But like his moral compass, his style is misguiding.
George Claire’s style is a masterclass in the duplicity of fashion. His outfits are carefully curated to project a certain image, one that belies his darker impulses. As we peel back the layers of his character, we also unravel the narrative woven into his wardrobe.
Key Elements of His Outfit
- Invest in a Tweed Jacket: A staple of George Claire’s wardrobe is the tweed jacket. Opt for one with subtle patterns and maybe even elbow patches for that professorial vibe. It’s both a nod to academic tradition and an effortlessly stylish piece.
- Embrace the Knitted Vest: Layering is key in achieving George’s look, and a knitted vest is the perfect mid-layer. It adds texture and warmth without the bulk, ideal for transitional seasons or the chilly halls of academia.
- The Crisp Button-Down Shirt: Underneath it all, a crisp button-down shirt is essential. It’s the foundation of the scholarly ensemble, and when paired with the vest and jacket, it completes the pseudo-intellectual uniform. Stick to classic colors like white, blue, or striped patterns.
Dressing like George Claire means capturing the essence of a man who is both refined and flawed. It’s about creating a polished exterior that hints at the complexities underneath. Let’s not forget, however, that emulating George’s style is purely aesthetic—leave his moral ambiguity for the screen.
Ana Sophia Heger as Franny Claire
- The Innocence of Youth: As the young daughter of George and Catherine Claire, Franny’s wardrobe is steeped in the innocence and simplicity of childhood. Her outfits are a harmony of pastel hues and soft fabrics, reflecting her purity amidst the film’s darker themes.
- Comfort Meets Childlike Whimsy: Franny’s ensembles are comfortable, allowing for the freedom of movement every child desires. Yet, there’s an element of whimsy in her clothing—floral patterns, playful overalls, and knitted cardigans that echo a child’s naive perspective.
- The Subtle Symbolism: In a film laden with symbolism, even Franny’s clothes tell a story. Her light, airy dresses often contrast the heavier narrative, serving as a visual reminder of the innocence that the adult characters have lost or corrupted.
Franny Claire’s style is a poignant juxtaposition to the adult attire in the film. It serves as a breath of fresh air, a visual palette cleanser that reminds us of the simplicity lost to adulthood. Her wardrobe is a touching ode to the untarnished spirit of youth.
Amanda Seyfried as Catherine Claire
- The Artistic Soul: Amanda Seyfried’s Catherine Claire is a vision of the artistic and the ethereal. Her clothing choices—flowy dresses, subtle floral prints, and soft cardigans—reflect her gentle spirit and creative soul.
- The Nuances of Neutrality: Catherine’s color palette is predominantly neutral, with occasional pops of muted color. This choice speaks to her character’s attempt to maintain peace and normalcy amidst the chaos of her life and marriage.
- A Style that Speaks Volumes: Every garment Catherine wears seems to carry a message. The way her dresses move with her, the protective layering of her cardigans—they all hint at a woman who is at once vulnerable and resilient, her clothing a shield against the turmoil she faces.
Catherine Claire’s style is a delicate dance between form and function, beauty and protection. Her wardrobe is as complex as her character, with each piece carefully chosen to represent the different facets of her life and the strength she musters to navigate them.
Charlotte Maier as Peg
- The Matron of Mystery: Peg, portrayed by Charlotte Maier, is a character who exudes a sense of authority and experience. Her clothing is practical yet polished, with structured silhouettes and a confident use of color.
- The Sophisticated Ruralite: Peg’s style is a testament to rural sophistication. Blazers, tailored trousers, and crisp blouses create a look that’s both grounded and commanding. She’s the embodiment of rural chic—unafraid to be stylish in a small-town setting.
- Accessorizing with Intent: Peg’s accessories are not mere afterthoughts; they are integral to her presence. Brooches, statement necklaces, and elegant scarves are carefully chosen to complement her outfits, adding a touch of gravitas to her overall demeanor.
Peg’s wardrobe is a masterful blend of practicality and poise. Her style is a reflection of her role in the community—a woman of substance, whose clothing choices mirror her strong-willed nature.
Kristin Griffith as Audrey Claire
- The Wistful Widow: Audrey Claire, played by Kristin Griffith, brings to the screen a wardrobe that encapsulates her status as a widow and a woman of a certain age. Her outfits are a mix of mourning and muted elegance, with dark colors and classic cuts.
- Elegance in Simplicity: Audrey’s style is understated yet undeniably elegant. She favors long skirts, turtlenecks, and structured jackets—a nod to her maturity and the conventional expectations of her social standing.
- The Understated Accessories: Audrey’s accessories are subtle and sophisticated. Simple pearl earrings, a classic watch, and perhaps a tasteful ring are all that she needs to complete her ensemble. They are the finishing touches to a wardrobe that speaks of quiet dignity and grace.
Audrey Claire’s style is a poignant portrayal of a woman who finds strength in tradition. Her clothing is a testament to her character’s journey through grief and the search for identity in the aftermath of loss.
Ben Graney as Husband #2
- The Everyday Man: Ben Graney’s portrayal of Husband #2 is relatable and grounded. His style is the epitome of the average American man—functional, comfortable, and unpretentious.
- The Casual Wardrobe: Husband #2’s wardrobe consists of everyday staples. Think denim jeans, plaid shirts, and simple tees. His clothing is utilitarian, chosen for durability and ease rather than fashion statements.
- The Subtle Storyteller: While his style may not scream complexity, the simplicity of Husband #2’s wardrobe is reflective of his role in the film. His garments are unassuming, yet they serve to ground the narrative in reality, providing a contrast to the more stylized characters.
Husband #2 may not be a fashion icon, but his style is essential to the film’s portrayal of everyday life. His wardrobe is a reminder that sometimes, clothes are simply about living.
Molly Jobe as Wife #1
- The Feminine Touch: Molly Jobe’s character, Wife #1, adds a distinctly feminine flair to the film. Her style is soft and nurturing, with a penchant for cozy knits, flowing tops, and an overall gentle demeanor.
- The Palette of Warmth: Wife #1’s clothing choices are warm, both in color and texture. Her wardrobe is a comforting embrace, with earth tones and soft fabrics that reflect her caring nature.
- The Detail in Delicacy: Even in simplicity, there is attention to detail. Lace trims, delicate buttons, and light embroidery—all these small touches add a layer of depth to her character, hinting at the complexities of her role in the narrative.
Wife #1’s style is like a tender whisper amidst the louder statements of other characters. Her wardrobe is a visual representation of her supportive and heartfelt presence within the story.
Summary of Outfits and Where to Buy Them
- Vintage Shops and Boutiques: For those seeking to replicate the film’s style, vintage shops and boutiques are treasure troves for period-specific pieces. Here you can find authentic 80s garments that mirror the aesthetic of ‘Things Heard & Seen’.
- Online Retailers and Specialty Stores: Online shopping can also yield great finds. Look for retailers that specialize in vintage or retro-inspired clothing. Websites like Etsy, eBay, and even some dedicated vintage stores offer a wide range of options.
- Modern Takes on Classic Pieces: Don’t overlook contemporary brands that offer modern takes on classic pieces. Many fashion houses have lines that reflect the timeless styles seen in the film, allowing you to capture the essence of the characters’ wardrobes.
Getting the look from ‘Things Heard & Seen’ is about mixing and matching, sourcing from different places to create ensembles that are both authentic to the period and personal to your style.
Styling Tips for Different Occasions
- For a Day at the Office: Channel your inner George Claire with a tweed blazer, a button-down shirt, and a pair of slacks. It’s professional with a hint of academic flair.
- Brunch with Friends: Take inspiration from Catherine Claire with a breezy floral dress and a cozy cardigan. It’s effortlessly chic and perfect for a casual outing.
- An Evening Out: Embrace Peg’s polished look with a tailored blazer, a silk blouse, and statement jewelry. It’s sophisticated and commands attention.
Styling for different occasions means adapting the film’s aesthetic to suit your life. It’s about taking the elements you love and making them work for you, whether you’re heading to work or out for the night.
How to Incorporate ‘Things Heard & Seen (2021)’ Elements in Your Daily Outfits
- Start with the Basics: Begin by incorporating simple pieces that reflect the film’s style. A knitted vest or a floral blouse can be a subtle nod to the aesthetic.
- Accessorize with Purpose: Choose accessories that complement the film’s vibe. A vintage brooch or a pair of pearl earrings can add a touch of ‘Things Heard & Seen’ to any outfit.
- Mix and Match: Don’t be afraid to mix vintage and modern pieces. Pair a vintage dress with contemporary shoes for a look that’s both timeless and current.
Incorporating elements from ‘Things Heard & Seen’ into your daily outfits is about expressing your personal style while paying homage to the film’s chic mystique. It’s a way to keep the narrative alive in your wardrobe.
Conclusion: The Enduring Appeal of ‘Things Heard & Seen (2021)’ Style
As the screen fades to black and the final scene of ‘Things Heard & Seen’ lingers in our minds, so too does the film’s distinctive style. The characters, each with their unique wardrobe, tell a story that transcends the confines of the screen. From George Claire’s academic charm to Catherine’s artistic spirit, the fashion of ‘Things Heard & Seen’ is a sartorial symphony that harmonizes with the film’s haunting melody.
The allure of the film’s aesthetic is enduring, inviting us to decode the chic mystique of its characters. It’s a style that speaks to the complexities of the narrative, the setting, and the era. As a fashion blogger and movie buff, I find myself drawn to the layers of meaning within each outfit, each piece of clothing a character in its own right.
So, whether you’re a fan of vintage fashion, a lover of cinema, or simply someone who appreciates the art of dressing, ‘Things Heard & Seen’ offers a wealth of inspiration. Embrace the aesthetic, incorporate it into your wardrobe, and let your style tell a story.
And with that, I encourage you to Share your unique style tips in the comments and revisit us for the latest updates on fashion advice and exclusive deals! Let’s keep the conversation going, and let the style of ‘Things Heard & Seen’ continue to inspire our sartorial choices.
