Friday, March 4, 2011

Film & Fashion: Pillow Talk



On my quest to watch the 501 Must See Movies, I happened to watch Pillow Talk starring cultural icon Doris Day. I've always wanted to watch it anyway, since I had a classic movie phase when I was younger and this was one of those movies I was going to see but kept on putting off. Makes me wonder now why I took so long when it was absolutely adorable!

A little background... Pillow Talk is like a battle of the sexes movie during the days of the party line. If you don't know what a party line is, it's when you share a number with another person because back then, there weren't a lot of phone line available yet. Jan Morrow (Doris Day) is a modern career woman (in those days, anyway) who shares a party line with playboy composer Brad Allen (Rock Hudson). They bicker about phone rights all the time, but when Brad accidentally catches a glimpse of the lady on the other side of the phone, his interest is piqued and sets off to woo her into bed without her knowing his true identity. Hijinks ensue!

The story is enough to interest me, but what sold me to this movie and landing it on one of my favorite classic films is the wardrobe which was designed by Jean Louis. I absolutely love Jan Morrow's well put together outfits! Even though this movie was made in 1959, I can still see these looks on the runway, the streets, and on the closets of every career woman today.

Stylish Jan Morrow (Doris Day) in Pillow Talk

There were several outfits that caught my eye in the movie. One of the most popular outfits in this movie is the white gown Jan wears during her first meeting with Brad. We can't blame the guy for falling for her at first sight because she was absolutely gorgeous in this number. It looks so deceptively innocent in front - even in pure white! - but she turns around and we see that the dress actually plunges to the small of her back, showcasing the skin and curves.

But my favorite has to be the dark green ensemble that she wore in Jonathan's office. I love how her orange accessories pop out and brightens up outfit. I guess I just love the unexpected and daring color combination. It made me dive into my closet and find something that could pass for it.

Alas, I found nothing. Need to do more shopping! Meanwhile, here's my take on that outfit.


1 comment :

  1. I stumbled on your blog today doing some research for a novel I am attempting to write - which is a modern day take on Pillow Talk. I, too, love the fashion in this film and hope to be able to describe similar timeless styles. I especially love your interpretation of of the green outfit. If you are interested in doing more like that I would love to see them!

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