Costume design plays a bigger role in horror movies than most people give it credit for, changing our perceptions of characters, giving clues to their killer personalities, and even working to sub-consciously disturb us in ways we don't even clock. From well-dressed final girls to couture-clad killers, this October we've compiled a list of the horror, thriller, and slasher movies giving “fashion victim” a new meaning.
The Neon Demon (2016)
This psychological horror, directed by Nicolas Winding Refn, offers a bloody take on the horrors of the modelling industry, peeling back the industry’s most controversial aspects, including high beauty standards, restrictive dieting, and violent competitiveness. And as you’d expect from a movie about high-fashion editorials, The Neon Demon featured some luxury looks, including pieces by Saint Laurent, Giles, and Armani.
Suspiria (2018)
Luca Guadagnino’s Suspiria took the ‘70s style of the original 1977 movie’s costuming and recreated it for the modern iteration. Inspired by another movie on this list, Rosemary’s Baby, costume designer Giulia Piersanti looked to vintage psychological thrillers to create the hypnotic prints and capes in the movie. But there was one piece that stood out; a dress made from real human hair extensions.
Rosemary’s Baby (1968)
The costumes in the movie Rosemary’s Baby were hugely impactful on fashion, even going on to inspire designers like Miuccia Prada and Joseph Altuzarra thanks to costume designer Anthea Sylbert’s juxtaposition. As she explained, the ordinary outfits worn by the movie’s protagonist are meant to put the audience at ease, which in turn makes the plot even more disturbing.
The Substance (2024)
From Demi Moore’s bright yellow trench and broad shouldered red gown to Margaret Qualley’s slinky pink bodysuit and black leather catsuit, The Substance is delivering as much on fashion as it’s delivering on gore. Every costume in the movie tells a story, from the diamonté detailed robe to the final scene's baby blue party dress.
The Hunger (1983)
Costume designer Milena Canonero actually enlisted Yves Saint Laurent to create the vampiric high fashion looks worn by The Hunger’s protagonist Miriam in 1983. From shoulder pads to fishnets and sheer fabrics, the character’s wardrobe explored gothic influences with references to the 1930s as a hint to Miriam’s “immortal” style.
American Psycho (2000)
Real ones already know that American Psycho had some issues when styling its protagonist, Manhattan murderer Patrick Bateman. However, the movie’s costume designer did succeed in sourcing Valentino, Jean Paul Gaultier, and plenty more high fashion brands to make up Bateman’s luxury businessman wardrobe.
Bram Stoker’s Dracula (1992)
Not only does costuming in Bram Stoker’s Dracula take on a Victorian sensibility, seen in three-piece suits, frilled gowns, and top hats, but it also (obviously) requires a vampiric edge, taking inspiration from the steampunk, gothic aesthetics of Victorian Vamp fashion. A standout costume on the movie has to be Dracula’s blood red armour, designed by Eiko lshioka.
The Birds (1963)
Costume designer Edith Head delivered old-fashioned elegance for protagonist Tippi Hedren’s outfits in The Birds, dressing the character in mostly cool tones on Hitchcock’s instruction. This was because he wanted her looks to glow against the faded tones of the film’s backdrop, Bodega Bay. By appearing in glowing, elevated apparel, the violence of the film looks even more destructive against Tippi’s outfits because of the comparison.
The Lost Boys (1987)
Pop culture’s vampires might be the best dressed supernatural villains out there, and 1987’s The Lost Boys is evidence enough. But did you know that costume designer Susan Becker actually allowed the actors playing the four main vampires in the movie to go out on Melrose Avenue and pick their own outfits, which helped contribute to the youthful vibe of the costumes.
Featured image via Dimension Films©
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