Picking an outfit for a big occasion can be hard, whether it be your first day at a new job, a date you've been looking forward to, or that mission to destroy an enemy uranium plant by flying your fighter jet to near-certain death. Luckily for the kind of people who indulge in the latter – read: movie stars – there's usually a costume designer around to help out. These experts painstakingly pick garments that give you a greater insight into a character’s psyche. Remember White Lotus? Portia’s quarter-life crisis was echoed with a wardrobe of chaotically-paired prints and Y2K silhouettes. Even in the The Last of Us, Ellie’s badge-covered backpack shows her hope (or naivety) that one day, she’ll be living in a world where her biggest stress will be more tweenhood-related than apocalyptic.
They make a huge impact on our favourite stories, and menswear is particularly well served by the nominees in this year's Academy Awards 'Best Lead Actor' category, which were announced today. With plenty of films to drool over for their costume choices, from traditional suiting to nostalgic ‘90s summer attire, find below our favourites and why they should be on the top of your must-watch list.
Elvis
As to be expected from a biopic about the King of Rock & Roll, Austin Butler’s depiction includes stellar suits. Costume designer Catherine Martin colour-matched and took notes from Elvis’ own clothes to create pastel-hued two-pieces and embroidered jumpsuits; a wardrobe that pays homage to the star without having to use (and potentially damage) the archived styles. This, along with Butler’s depiction that’s left him with permanent Southern accent, are worth seeing.
The Banshees of Inisherin
On a small island located off the coast of Ireland, Colm (Brendon Gleeson) abruptly ends his friendship with Pádraic (Colin Farrell). As we watch the latter's increasingly desperate attempts to win back his regular drinking buddy's affection, we also get to see the pair wear some really, really great knitwear. From the traditional Aran styles layered over ocean-blue shirts to the earth-toned chunky cardies, there’s plenty on offer to get you searching on Google for your own. Plus, it's just great to watch Gleeson and Farrell tearing each other apart once again.
Aftersun
Paul Mescal is getting a Best Actor nod for his role as Calum in this atmospheric, tear-jerking drama – the film's only nomination, surprisingly. His heart-breaking portrayal of a father struggling with his mental health takes place in ‘90s Turkey on holiday with his pre-teen daughter Sophie (Frankie Corio). As to be expected, the wardrobe matches with its sepia-toned setting and will have you longing for the weather to wear sports shorts, Dad-print short-sleeved shirts and faded-graphic tees.
Living
Three-time Oscar winner Sandy Powell collated the looks for Living, and her expertise is clear. Set in ‘50s London, Mr Williams (Bill Nighy) receives a medical diagnosis that inspires him to move to the seaside to see out his remaining days. As a veteran civil servant, his sartorial ensembles consist of classic pin-stripe suits, bowler hats and trench coats. Expect to feel tempted to take a trip to Savile Row soon after watching.
