Cinema to Closet: The Enduring Power of Fashion in Shaping Identity

Exploring How Movies and Magazines Have Inspired Personal Style

A few months ago, I read a brilliant post by

Camilla

that described the timeless influence of Rene Russo’s wardrobe in The Thomas Crown Affair, titled Ask A Stylist: Dress For An Affair. I loved it, took her advice, and rewatched the movie that weekend.

It was a perfect example of how the film’s stylist created an identity for the character without her having to say a word. Russo was chic and dressed (largely in Céline by Michael Kors) for the glamorous life she portrayed — both aspirational and accessible.

While I recognized a few items from my own wardrobe, I felt inspired to start a shopping list to emulate her look — and that’s saying something, given the film dates back to 1999.

Shortly afterwards, I saw the documentary In Vogue: The 90s and was struck again by the arresting and prolific imagery from that period. Regardless of the trend, model, or designer, the viewpoints and images seemed more powerful than those of today. The blend of words, photography, and fashion as art — crafted by talented writers, photographers, and editors created an intensity that is hard to replicate.

That connection made me feel more engaged. I could flip through those magazine pages, be delighted by what I saw in the movies, and then go into stores to touch, try on, and buy the clothes. The experience felt more special and intentional than transactional.

While online shopping is convenient and offers greater geographic accessibility, it lacks the excitement of visiting a store. I prefer to shop in person whenever I can, and my most memorable retail moments include visits to New York, Milan and Paris.

Linda Evangelista by Steven Meisel for Dolce & Gabbana — the inspiration behind my love for gold hoops. Oliviero Toscani for The United Colors of Benetton — my favorite part-time job and my introduction to accessible Italian fashion. Claire from The Breakfast Club by John Hughes — the reason behind every boot purchase I've ever made. Stephanie Seymour, Christy Turlington, and Cindy Crawford by Herb Ritts for Versace — the ad that hung on my bedroom door for 15 years and inspired my love for leather pants. Elizabeth from 9 1/2 Weeks by Adrian Lyne — the shopping scene in Comme des Garçons that turned me into a fitted-suit girl for life.

Those formative years shaped not only my wardrobe but my entire approach to style. The editorial and cinematic allure crafted a narrative that transcended mere clothing — it was about identity and the artistry of self-expression. Each issue of Vogue, my favorite magazine, offered a view into a world where fashion was not just a way to dress, but a means of storytelling.

Reflecting on the impact of films like The Thomas Crown Affair, it’s clear how powerful visual narratives can be. These films encapsulated an era when glamour was synonymous with sophistication, and the sheer elegance of Russo’s character remains a standard by which I measure my own choices.

In today’s fast-paced digital world, where trends come and go, I find comfort in the timeless quality of those early influences. It’s about curating a wardrobe that speaks to me, rather than chasing fads. Whether investing in a classic piece or reviving an old favorite, the goal is to feel empowered in what I wear.

Ultimately, my love is a celebration of artistry — whether it’s the work of a designer, the vision of a stylist, or the genius of an editor. Each piece holds a story, and every outfit can evoke memories and emotions. As I continue to navigate the ever-evolving landscape, I remain committed to honoring the inspirations that shaped me.

I embrace the enduring impact of those iconic films and glossy pages. They’ve taught me that it’s not just about what we wear but about the creativity that comes with it. And while trends may change, the pursuit of personal style remains timeless.

Here’s to many more years of celebrating fashion as art, one carefully curated piece at a time.

Edited by: Karen Hall

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