Sunday, 26 July 2009

I'll take off my cape for you

One of the most perfect starlet's movie wardrobes ever was Constance Bennett's in 1937's Topper. Starring opposite the incredibly handsome Cary Grant, Bennett plays the ghost of a socialite who, unlike most movie spirits, is able to change her outfits for every occasion. She is killed and becomes a ghost wearing the most amazing lame full-length bias cut gown with dolman sleeves and an ermine and silk cape. Most of the photos I found from the movie show her wearing this glamourous outfit.
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Then as she busies herself attempting to loosen Topper, her husband's boss', inhibitions she also finds the time to change into a series of striking day suits, elegant dresses, various fur coats and some rather amazing gowns by Samuel Lange. The rest of her wardrobe was supposedly designed by the legendary Irene, even though she is uncredited. Sadly the internet seems to be lacking in screenshots of the movie, but when I finally get a copy of the movie I will put some up. For now enjoy the original trailer where you can see the lame gown in action.
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3 comments:

  1. Keith26 July 2009 at 17:14

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  2. Keith26 July 2009 at 17:15

    Great post. I loved it. Fantastic photos. I really enjoyed this film. Constance and Cary are wonderful. Hope you've had a nice weekend.

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  3. Nicole31 July 2009 at 20:46

    Constance Bennett always looked marvelous. From the book "The Power of Glamour":

    "She wore clothes better than she acted ... For many Bennett was the clotheshorse for the mid-thirties. Her own philosophy was reminiscent of fashion-editor wisdom: "Never follow fads. There is a difference between novelty and originality ... She once tore to shreds a frock that she was to wear in a film, because she didn't like the style."

    Old Hollywood is the best.

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