5 films with great style

Movies you should watch for a glimpse into unique styles from the past.

Films. One of the greatest forms of inspiration. Movies truly give us so much, especially when it comes to fashion. Watching them to get style inspo is a tale as old as time, and it’s one that I will never get bored of. With so much reference, you can really dive into specific genres and time periods to better understand a certain moment in fashion—something I find extremely fun. These movies might not make you want to dress like the characters, but it’s a good way to see how certain styles age and how some come back years later.

Today I wanted to share some movies I watched recently that give a glimpse of unique styles from the past. These films might be older, but decades later the fashion still holds up, even today. On top of that, these are all just really amazing movies that everyone should watch regardless of the clothes—I will say though, a good movie is great on its own, but it’s even better when it also has amazing costume design.

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Cure (1997)

Directed by Kiyoshi Kurosawa, Cure is a horror film that will have you at the edge of your seat—that’s all I’ll say. While all of that is going on, you’ll also get to experience a variety of amazing menswear looks. From great coats to elite collar execution I’ve never even thought to think about. It’s a great film regardless of style, and it’s one that you should watch if you haven’t already—plus you get to watch a young Kōji Yakusho at work. An absolute legend.

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Ichi The Killer (2001)

Another cult classic banger directed by Takashi Miike—a japanese movie making legend that has a variety of film genres under his belt. I’ve definitely noticed that a lot of Japanese horror movies all have their unique, and sometimes over the top fashion that makes the films that much more enjoyable, and Ichi The Killer is no different. Crazy suiting with outerwear that’s popping with color matches interestingly within the context of the film. I won’t say too much in terms of the story, because it’s something you need to go into blindly. Just to give you an idea, it was banned in several countries for its ultra-violent scenes—so get ready for a ride.

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Made in Hong Kong (1997)

Directed by Fruit Chan, Made in Hong Kong is an absolutely beautiful yet dark and twisted story about Autumn Moon, a teenager who drops out of high school to become a money collector for organized crime. An extremely stylish film that shows us a glimpse of Hong Kong style in the 90s. Crazy accessories throughout, paired with unique fits that you don’t get to see everyday is what makes this one exciting. I was recommended this film by a friend and I truly enjoyed this one from start to finish.

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Read more:

• How to build a basic wardrobe

• Japan shopping guide

• What workwear jacket is right for you?

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Snatch (2000)

Absolute classic. Rewatched this not too long ago and got reinvigorate about menswear. This should be the first movie on your list if you haven’t seen it already. So many various styles can be found across the individual character groups in this film that makes the fashion exciting. Some insane jacket moments, elite layering, and straight up unforgettable looks make this movie an absolute must watch for anyone obsessed with clothes.

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Solaris (1972)

A Tarkovsky classic. If you haven’t watched this, do yourself a favor and lock in. Costume design on this one is so intriguing because of the fact that they wore regular clothing in space. It’s something Tarkovsky made clear. He thought people would laugh ‘in 30 years’ time’ because they would see the characters wearing spacesuits. Feels like the right move because it’s decades later, and we’re still going back to get inspired by the looks in this film.

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Got any movie recommendations? I’d love to hear what films you thought had a great impact on style. Share your suggestions in the comments below.