2013’s contribution to the list of iconic fashion films is David O. Russell’s “American Hustle”, in which we’re thrust loudly into the mega-glam scene of the late ’70s/early ’80s.
“Annie Hall”. “The Great Gatsby”. “Bonnie & Clyde”. “Breakfast at Tiffany’s”. There are films in which fashion commands your attention and often steals the show, sometimes giving the only memorable performance. “Desperately Seeking Susan”, anyone?
Now, the “American Hustle” look harkens us back to a bygone era. Halston’s hip-hugging pantsuits and dangerously plunging necklines gave us a new feminine silhouette to wear while the jangling joyride of disco screeched to a halt in the impending face of Reganomics and some of the worst unemployment rates in U.S. history. This look is body conscious, sensual, and borderline garish. And while it is doubtful that anyone will be rushing out to emulate Roslyn’s (Jennifer Lawrence) impossibly high-maintenance up-dos anytime soon, you can bet your strobe light that Amy Adams’ Sydney will be a style icon for years to come. (Or at least until the next great fashion film emerges!)
GET THE (Eco-Friendly) LOOK
Play Dress Up
You can always pop into your local Goodwill, antique mall or vintage clothing emporium, but if you prefer the instant gratification of keyword searches or want something specific, there’s a treasure trove of late-seventies fashion on Etsy and Ebay . And if you have a bigger budget, 1st dibs is teeming with incredible museum-quality couture and prêt-à-porter from the period, like this 70s stunner by Holly’s Harp.
Great keywords to search are Halston, Bob Mackie, DVF, Studio 54, Courreges, pantsuit, halter, vintage maxi, etc. A lot of dealers are wising up to the “American Hustle” trend and have started using it as a keyword, too! Both Etsy and 1st dibs have searches that let you easily drill down to certain time periods and style, which is so helpful.
We found this drop-dead vintage Halston piece on Ebay.
Feeling crafty? You can always fire up the sewing machine, buy a vintage designer pattern and make your own gown with vintage fabric.
Put it together
Three words: Big. Gold. Hoops. We found some great handmade ones on Etsy with way more character than the multitude of mass-produced jewelry on the market.
It’s impossible to be ’70s glamorous without a giant pair of sunglasses. “American Hustle” showcased a few great pair of ombre lenses and we hit up Etsy again for some incredible specs at excellent prices, like this perfect pair of vintage Courreges.
Glam it up
Think you can’t get this outrageously glittery, big-haired style and still be environmentally conscious? Oh, girl. Think again.
At this point, Zoya has any color and finish you can imagine in their extensive nail polish line, which is all-natural and free of toxins. We adore their “Maura” as a classic late-seventies red-orange and “Ava” for a pearly, frothy pink.
If you haven’t checked out Obsessive Compulsive Cosmetics, you’ll be stunned with their incredible glitter-laden line, which is 100 percent vegan, cruelty-free and fabulous! Their matching Lip Tar & Nail Lacquer sets are oh, so ’70s (and the hemp oil will make your lips SO happy): Try the “Kava Kava” for a sparkly pale peach or the “Anime” for a deliciously candy-inspired pink.
If you don’t already own hot rollers, your going to need them to get Sydney’s nouveau-Veronica Lake waves. Nab some of Aveda’s yummy smelling “Damage Control” to protect your tresses from the heat and some cruelty-free Paul Mitchell “Hold Me Tight” hairspray to keep you camera-ready into the wee hours.
Tie the whole look together and sparkle head to toe with Urban Decay’s vegan “Naked Illuminated” Face and Body Powder.
Be an Icon
Much like Ursula Andress’ bikini scene in “Dr. No”, Amy Adams’ emergence in a crocheted bathing suit will surely find a place in the collective consciousness. Think you’ve got the chutzpah to rock that look? Hurry! There’s a vintage one on Etsy!
Photo credits: Film still of Amy Adams © 2013 Sony Pictures Digital Productions Inc., Green Holly’s Harp gown courtesy of ShrimptonCouture.com , Halston Jumpsuit from ebay seller things*of*splendor, vintage Scott Barrie dress pattern from CloesCloset, gold hoops by Misty Evans Design, Courreges sunglasses from CloudNineVintage, crocheted bathing suit from ZalaVintage
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