Art, music, and of course, cinema have influenced fashion and have also been influenced by it. There are many film titles that have become symbols of fashion and trends over the years, with characters and protagonists we wish we could be—or at least have their wardrobes—and there are many stories that have been told in cinema through clothing as well, which is a key element in the creation of a character and their personality.
Lists of fashion-related films or films that have shaped trends in a specific decade usually mention the same titles over and over, naming films that have become visual cult documents like Qui êtes-vous, Polly Maggoo? (1966) or pop culture icons like Clueless (1995). That’s why, in this list, I’m sharing 7 of my favorite cult films with inspiring wardrobes.
Une Femme est Une Femme. (1961)
This work by Jean-Luc Godard, representative of the French Nouvelle Vague, is a title that’s among my favorite films. With Anna Karina, Jean-Claude Brialy, and Jean-Paul Belmondo as protagonists, it tells the story of Angela and Émile’s relationship and problems, portrayed through Godard’s comedic and Parisian lens, capturing this new way of making cinema and highlighting Angela’s ultra-feminine, romantic, and determined personality.
Colorful and classic mid-sixties outfits—before the arrival of the miniskirt and the Space Age—adorned with details like fur trims and red tights, made the character of Angela a style icon.
The truth is that any Godard film from this era could be on this list, such as Made in U.S.A. (1966) or Pierrot le Fou (1965), although Une Femme est Une Femme was the film that first highlighted Anna Karina’s personality through a character and her wardrobe.
Smashing Time (1967)
A hidden gem of 1960s British cinema, more appreciated by fashion lovers than film buffs. This British comedy is another of my favorites, featuring two of the top comedic actresses of the time: Rita Tushingham and Lynn Redgrave. This work satirically portrays the elements that shaped the Swinging London era: revolutionary photographers, art galleries, peacocks, boutiques, rock bands… and of course, the Carnaby Street boutiques.
In Smashing Time, we see in real time what this legendary street looked like at its peak, with the boutiques that made it famous, as well as the garments that were trendy at the time.
Belle du Jour (1967)
For this film, Luis Buñuel chose Yves Saint Laurent to design the wardrobe for his main character after a recommendation from Catherine Deneuve herself—a wise decision, as the designer brought an elegant and modern touch to Séverine Serizy, a newlywed with an innocent appearance who leads a rather perverse double life.
Saint Laurent’s designs were complemented by low-heeled buckle shoes from Roger Vivier, now known as Belle Vivier. Séverine Serizy’s style became a trend, adopted by many French women of that era.
Cinco de Chocolate y Uno de Fresa (1968)
This classic of Mexican cinema couldn’t be left out, as it reflects the psychedelia of the late ’60s that had already reached the country. With a soundtrack featuring songs by Angelica Maria and Los Dug Dugs, this film breaks from the typical teen rebellion plot seen until then.
The wardrobe represents the modernity of the fashion of that time, with psychedelic print mini dresses designed by Gene Matouk and high boots—showing that various elements of modern ’60s fashion also arrived in Mexico.
Times Square (1980)
This story of two teenagers hooked me from the very beginning, when Robin Johnson is seen walking through late-’70s Manhattan while Same Old Scene by Roxy Music plays.
Nicky, a rebellious punk-rock teenager, meets Pamela, a wealthy girl whom she convinces to run away from her father and form the duo Sleez Sisters. This film shows a dirty, unglamorous side of Manhattan at the time while telling the story of two teenagers to the rhythm of Tubeway Army and The Ramones—a soundtrack that inspired me on my first trip to New York several years ago, helping me capture the essence of the city.
Leather jackets, leggings, and DIY outfits made from trash capture the essence of New York punk at the time.
Pretty in Pink (1986)
If you’re looking to enjoy a romantic film to the rhythm of New Order and Spandau Ballet, this 1980s teen classic by John Hughes is a great choice. It’s the typical modern Cinderella story, but with lots of style and an excellent soundtrack.
Andy, the high school protagonist played by Molly Ringwald, is an aspiring fashion designer who creates her outfits from second-hand pieces and outfits she sews herself with whatever materials she can find. The overall wardrobe of Andy and her friends has an eclectic style, made up of unique pieces and treasures discovered by costume designer Marilyn Vance that bring each character’s personality to life through clothing and textures. Among those unique pieces is a legendary skirt from the British brand Bodymap, worn by the character Iona in one of the scenes.
Heathers (1988)
With oversized shoulder pads, blouses buttoned up to the top, preppy style, and primary colors, Heathers defined the «rich bitch» look long before Mean Girls (2004).
In this dark teen comedy, three rich and popular girls—all named Heather—maliciously dictate what should or shouldn’t be done, and each asserts her status by wearing a specific color: red, yellow, and green. Veronica (Winona Ryder) represents the dark and disruptive side of the group, symbolized by her blue and black clothing, breaking the Heathers’ perfect aura with a style that leans more alternative.
Análisis, Cultura y Mindset de la moda. 
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