Ideas for How to Dress Like an Oscar- Nominated Character
- One of the most important aspects in the clothing of Oscar-nominated characters is the period their look evokes. When attempting to mirror a personage's ensemble, pay attention to the sartorial characteristics of the film. For example, Christine Collins, played by Angelina Jolie in "The Changeling," donned a cloche hat, representative of her 1920s setting. Should Captain Jack Sparrow inspire you, of "Pirates of the Caribbean" fame, consider donning a dreadlock wig, a large bandanna, and some faux fur animal pelts, all of which characterize 18th-century pirate dress. Suits, skinny dark ties and shapely sideburns can recall the noir comic appeal of Vincent Vega and Jules Winnfield in "Pulp Fiction;" both characters garnered Oscar nominations for John Travolta and Samuel L. Jackson, respectively.
- You can't dress like an Oscar-nominated personage if you cannot find one to mimic. The Academy Awards are an annual event; tune into the nominations ceremony which occurs each January. Another way to find ideal characters is to study the filmographies of frequently nominated actors. Al Pacino, who has earned eight nominations, is a trove of inspiration; Big Boy Caprice in "Dick Tracy" and Frank Serpico are only two characters that may interest you. Katherine Hepburn is an excellent star to research, winning nominations for roles in films like "The Philadelphia Story" and "The African Queen." Meryl Streep (icy Miranda Priestly in "The Devil Wears Prada") and Peter O'Toole (T.E. "Lawrence of Arabia") have also won manifold nominations -- Streep more than anyone, with 16 to date.
- The actresses themselves are not alone in creating vivid characters than earn Oscar nominations. Costume designers are also critical in the process, none more so than Edith Head. The famed costumer garnered eight Academy Awards throughout her career, more than any other woman. Studying her career can help you land on potential ideas for characters that may inspire a nice ensemble. Among the nominees she styled were Barbra Stanwyck in "Double Indemnity."
- Characters that earn Oscar nominations are noted for the integrity of their performance, of which costume is a significant factor. Vintage clothing provides an authenticity which can make your version of the character's style more believable. Finding vintage pieces can begin right at home; your own closet, or that of your friends and neighbors, may hide an older gem or two. Flea markets are also a good option, though it may be difficult to find pieces from eras earlier than the 1950s in such locations.
