We're feeling a little retro this weekend, and as the world gears up for another round of Fashion Weeks (although we can't bear to talk Fall/Winter when Spring is still taking it's sweet time to arrive), we take a look at 5 films that captured iconic fashion trends over the decades. 


Breakfast at Tiffany’s (1961)
The 1960s: Age of Rock & Roll and Audrey Hepburn. Breakfast at Tiffany’s is the first film to come to mind, and its impact on mainstream fashion is undeniable. Hepburn signature ensemble of the Little Black Dress, pearls, black pumps and primped updos (french twist, chignon) made her a style icon to many.   

(right) Diane Keaton at "Mad Money" Los Angeles premiere (image via TopNews)

Annie Hall (1977)
The 1970s: Flowers and Tie-Dye were huge of course, but thanks to Annie Hall menswear-inspired fashion for women came to the forefront.  Ties, vests, dress shirts and slacks in neutral palettes (such a departure for that decade) continue to exert their influence 40 years later - Diane Keaton (who played the title character) is still a strong ambassador for the trend.


Flashdance (1983)
The 1980s: Big hair, spandex, leg-warmers, and slouchy off-the-shoulder sweaters were the go-to look. Flashdance embodied it all. 


Clueless (1995)
The 1990s: here too was a time of mixed trends, from its grungy early days to the preppy looks that dominated later on.  Clueless with its argyle, tweed, plaid skirts, and knee-high socks captured the style statement perfectly.

(right) Charlize Theron wearing Roberto Cavalli (image via MillionLook)

Gladiator (2000)
The 2000s: this decade saw the reemergence of many older trends taken to the next level.  One surprising comeback was the grecian-inspired fashion of gladiator sandals, draping, one-shouldered tops and dresses (turns out those toga frat parties were onto something), and structured curly hairstyles.  Gladiator may not strike you as an iconic film on its own merits, but the trend inspiration is undeniable.

Giorgio Armani Pre-Fall 2011 (c), Gucci Spring 2011 (r)

Black Swan (2010)
What’s up for the 2010s?  In beauty, we are seeing pale faces and bold lips, while Film Noir-inspired textiles such as leathers, furs and feathers are huge fashion trends right now.  Black Swan tops our list as the film that represents.

Which era would you most like to see make a fashion reappearance? (Or not?)