The Silver Screen‘s 25 Most Iconic Dresses

There is no way to overestimate the importance of costumes in the film industry. When done right, costuming can define not only the time and place, but also a character’s inner world, creating memorable moments that stand out for all the right reasons. In this article, we celebrate 25 of the most iconic outfits in film history, from classic Hollywood to modern blockbusters.

When Holly Golightly appeared in the very first scene of “Breakfast at Tiffany’s” everyone’s heart skipped a beat.

Considered by director Alfred Hitchcock to be the epitome of the “Icy Blode” beauty, there’s no wonder her look in  In “To Catch a Thief” became so famous.

There are few images that are as synonymous with Hollywood magic as that of Marilyn Monroe, standing over a subway grate with her billowing white skirt.

Sharon Stone’s portrayal of Catherine Tramell in “Basic Instinct” is accentuated by her bold and daring white, high-necked, sleeveless dress.

When we first meet Olivia Newton-John’s Sandy, her innocence is highlighted by her cute, girlish outfits. But by the end of the movie, when she emerges with high-waisted black spandex pants, we know that she’s a changed woman.

Reese Witherspoon’s Elle Woods brought brains, skills, and endless style to the court of law in “Legally Blonde”.

Dorothy’s blue-and-white gingham dress in “The Wizard of Oz” became an iconic symbol of cinematic history.

It’s not surprising to discover that in “Desperately Seeking Susan,” Madonna’s wardrobe was drawn from her own closet, since, according to the film’s director, she embodied the essence of 80s Manhattan.

Who other than Cher Horowitz can pull off a yellow plaid suit?

Vivian Ward’s red gown in “Pretty Woman” exemplifies her transformation into a sophisticated lady, while still maintaining the character’s flair.

In “In the Mood for Love,” Maggie Cheung’s character showcases 50 exquisite cheongsams, each one conveying her emotions throughout the film. The most memorable one, however, is her rose-covered one, which she wears during her confession.

The black strapless gown in “La Dolce Vita” was a breakthrough for Italian fashion.

Not only a world-class singer and actress, Diana Ross is also a fashion icon. Ross designed over 50 looks for her character in “Mahogany,” and sparked a change in the perception of flashy and brightly colored clothing.

The green “curtain” dress worn by Vivien Leigh as Scarlett O’Hara in “Gone with the Wind” has become a timeless piece of movie history.

Carrie Bradshaw’s enormous Vivienne Westwood wedding gown in “Sex and the City: The Movie” captured the essence of Bradshaw’s larger-than-life sense of style and her enormous love of fashion, which are so synonymous with the character.

In “Romy and Michele’s High School Reunion,” the pink and blue metallic minidresses worn by Kudrow and Sorvino stand out as a testament to their friendship.

Annie Hall’s menswear-inspired outfit in Woody Allen’s “Annie Hall” sparked a trend in women’s fashion, celebrating bold and unconventional choices.

Inspired by the movie “Metropolis,” Whitney Houston’s futuristic performance costume in “The Bodyguard” is an absolute stunner.

“Titanic” had its fair share of amazing costuming, but Rose’s red-and-black sequined dress was a moment for the ages.

Apparently, Uma Thurman really didn’t like this Bruce-Lee-inspired costume, despite its rather comfy look.

In her fabulous role as Eliza Doolittle in “My Fair Lady,” Hepburn’s black-and-white ascot dress would have floored the British aristocracy even today.

Elizabeth Taylor’s phoenix-inspired gown in “Cleopatra” is a breathtaking masterpiece of luxury and extravagance.

Apparently, Monroe’s iconic hot pink dress in “Gentlemen Prefer Blondes” wasn’t even the costume designer’s first choice!

Rita Hayworth’s now-legendary hair flip wasn’t the only memorable thing to come out of the movie “Gilda”.

Keira Knightley’s emerald green gown in “Atonement” combines elements from different eras, including the ’30s, ’40s, and early 2000s, to create a timeless and alluring piece that remains etched in viewers’ memories.