There’s a reason artists and designers constantly refer to classic movies and cultural movements in their work for inspiration. Like the saying “History repeats itself,” it’s quite evident that fashion also repeats itself. We’ve seen a revival of Old Hollywood glamour on the red carpet, ’60s mod, boho-chic, and more recently ’90s grunge everywhere we look. However, to really stand out, it’s not a question of imitating iconic looks but rather educating yourself in the process of the people and events that changed history. This week, I’m rekindling my love for Bonnie and Clyde — the young outlaws, the 1967 film and the fashion, brought to life and popularized by Bonnie’s portrayer: Faye Dunaway.
Faye Dunaway was born in Bascom, Florida (hooray, a Floridian!) and graduated in theater from the University of Florida. She first appeared on Broadway in 1962 and made her screen debut in 1967 on The Happening. That same year, she was given the leading role in Bonnie and Clyde with Warren Beatty, becoming one of her first most notable fashion works. It’s hard to say that an actress can truly become an icon through the interpretation and costumes of another character, but even off-duty she adopted Bonnie Parker’s cool appeal through masculinely-feminine pieces. Her short sleeve sweaters, tilted berets, patterned scarves and classic honey blonde bob became an instant signature look off the screen.
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These looks captured the 1930’s elegance with simplicity, emphasizing simple cut silhouettes, masculine colors in the shape of feminine pencil skirts (in contrast to the ’60s mini), soft fabrics, cardigans and the occasional suit blazer. They collectively created a character that gave sex appeal in a tasteful and minimal manner. Along with the fashion, the dramatic eyeliner, warm skin and peachy complexion translated off screen to daily life.
Faye’s style has evolved since then but has maintained a sense of masculinity that first arose in Bonnie and Clyde. She’s often seen in pant suits at award ceremonies and fabulously slouchy blazers that hint at her past. The amount of films she’s been a part of (and now directed) is innumerable! Her other fashionably iconic looks can be seen in The Thomas Crown Affair (1968) and Network (1976), where she wears clean suits and more decorative headwear. It’s easy to see why she is included in Times’ list of most beautiful women in films and why she is admired forever by fashion enthusiasts.Â