Get That Movie Star Glam
Few eras in history were as glamorous as cinema's Golden Age from the 1930s-1950s. This era introduced us to some of the most enduring fashion icons in modern history. Let's take a look at what made these starlets so fashionable before getting in how you can dress like them.
1. Audrey Hepburn
With her regal poise and blocky brows, Audrey Hepburn emanated style from the first moment she graced the silver screen. While her on-screen appearances were often designed by Givenchy, Hepburn's off-screen style was thoroughly minimalist. Striped sweaters, loafers, and cigarette pants create the perfect French girl look.
Paramount-photo by Bud Fraker on Wikimedia
2. Josephine Baker
Best known for wearing pearls, a banana skirt, and nothing else, Josephine Baker's style was sensational. Baker was known for her provocative and elaborate showgirl outfits, replete with pearls and beads. However, Baker wasn't afraid to get a little androgynous, occasionally donning white tie.
3. Grace Kelly
Grace Kelly's style was the polar opposite of Josephine Baker's. No matter what she was wearing, on or off-screen, Kelly always looked dainty and demure. Kelly's style was synonymous with the New Look of the 1950s popularized by Christian Dior with full skirts and a snatched waist.
Paramount publicity photographer. on Wikimedia
4. Veronica Lake
Veronica Lake's iconic peekaboo bangs and slinky nightgowns made her the ultimate femme fatale. Her sumptuous waves and expertly-crafted gowns gave her beauty a deadly edge. If you see a blond blowout on the red carpet today, it's almost always inspired by Lake.
Unknown authorUnknown author on Wikimedia
5. Rita Hayworth
Speaking of femme fatales, we couldn't get away without mentioning Rita Hayworth! Hayworth started her career as a dancer, and her clothes always had a sense of movement to them, moving with her body rather than restricting it. However, Hayworth's best accessorty was always her dazzling smile.
6. Jean Harlow
The first "blond bombshell", Jean Harlow had a short, yet memorable career which cemented her status as a fashion icon. Harlow often sported sinuous silk evening gowns with cowl necks and plunging backs. These gowns blurred the line between underwear and outerwear for 1930s glam at its finest.
Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer Studio on Wikimedia
7. Elizabeth Taylor
Elizabeth Taylor's style was as bold and glittery as she was. At the start of her career, Taylor opted for crisp blouses and swingy shirtdresses; as she aged, her style became more elaborate, incorporating fur, caftans, and headdresses. Whatever she wore, she was undeniably herself.
Studio publicity still on Wikimedia
8. Marlene Dietrich
Allegedly arrested for wearing pants in Paris, Marlene Dietrich's style went both ways. Dietrich was equally comfortable wearing a top hat and tails as she was in a evening gown and fur. Despite being a sex symbol with many love affairs, Dietrich never dressed for anyone but herself.
Don English (1901-1964); Paramount Pictures on Wikimedia
9. Katharine Hepburn
Speaking of women in pants, Katharine Hepburn's tomboy athleisure wear is almost antithetical with what we think of as Hollywood glam. Hepburn was game to wear evening gowns and feminine frills on-screen, but her personal style was the exact opposite. She loved wide-legged pants, collared shirts, and sandals.
Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer; no photographer credited on Wikimedia
10. Marilyn Monroe
You didn't think we'd forget Marilyn Monroe, did you? Known for her figure-hugging wiggle dresses and pencil skirts, Monroe wasn't shy about showing off her curves. In private, she was more of a quiet luxury kind of gal with capris, turtlenecks, and shorts.
Studio publicity still on Wikimedia
Now that we've gone over some of classic Hollywood's fashion icons, let's look at a few easy ways you can dress like them.
1. Prioritize Natural Fabrics
While polyester and other synthetic fabrics certainly existed during classic Hollywood, their use certainly wasn't as widespread as it is today. Instead, you should seek out natural fabrics such as cotton, linen, and silk. Not only will these fabrics help give you your desired silhouette, but they will also last longer.
2. Pay Attention To Tailoring
Tailoring can elevate even the simplest of outfits. If you look at pictures of Katharine Hepburn in her preferred uniform of slacks and a blouse, you'll notice that she still looks smart and chic despite her simplicity. This is because she used tailoring to accentuate the lines of her body for a fit that was both comfortable and flattering.
3. Opt For Bias-Cut
For slinky dresses and skirts that skim your body like a second skin, seek out bias cuts. Put simply, this means the fabric has been cut at an angle rather than parallel to the grain. The result is a sensual skirt that flows like water over your body for maximum Hollywood glam.
4. Play With Fabrics
Once you've gotten comfortable with natural fabrics, the next step is to mix and match them for a glamorous look. Satin and fur (real or faux) is a classic combo that's instantly recognizable as luxurious. This combo creates contrast between the voluminous fur and the sleek satin.
5. Use Heat
Whether you want Veronica Lake's peekaboo bangs or Josephine Baker's kiss curls, you're going to have to break out the hot tools. Roller sets, curlers, and hairdriers will help you achieve those perfect bouncy curls. If there's a specific look you're after, you may even be able to find a roller pattern online.
6. Don't Forget Undergarments
Don't get it twisted, we aren't saying you need to invest in a girdle and bullet bra for your clothes to look good. However fashion is like construction in that it requires a strong foundation. if your undergarments are comfortable and fit well, you clothes will fit better as well.
7. Try A Smart Suit
Old Hollywood ladies like Marlene Dietrich knew how to rock a suit. Structured suits with good tailoring are a subtle way to elevate your look no matter the occasion. Whether you're rocking a put-together pantsuit in a meeting or a full tuxedo for a formal event, you can be sure to stand out.
8. Define Your Brows
Eyes may be the windows to the soul, but eyebrows are important if you're going to emote. A classic red lip and cat eye may scream Hollywood glam, but it's a good brow that really pulls things together. Brow trends were enormously varied, you'll be sure to find one that suits you.
9. Shop Vintage
Do you think Elizabeth Taylor got her clothes from Shein? Not a chance. If you want good quality pieces that will stand the test of time, your best bet is to shop vintage. Not only will shopping vintage lend your look some authenticity, it's also more sustainable!
10. Accessorize
Diamonds may be a girls' best friend, but pearls will help you truly look and feel the part, Whether you want an extra-long string for a flapper look or a demure pair of earrings, pearls can pull a look together. Again, don't underestimate the power of vintage stores for finding pieces.
