Wednesday, April 22, 2009

Grey Gardens

Grey Gardens starring Drew Barrymore as "Little" Edith Bouvier Beale and Jessica Lange as "Big" Edith Bouvier Beale was such a touching and bittersweet film; capturing the essence behind the 1975 documentary. Costume designer Cat Thomas had to span the 1920's through the 1970's and did so with a harmonious and humorous eye. Trying to dress characters that were based on true eccentrics~ without turning them in to caricatures~ is crucial not only to believability, but to building a relationship between the character herself and the viewer.

Vivian Baker was Drew Barrymore's makeup artist, no information yet on her hairstylist. Both Drew and Jessica's hair and makeup were relevant to the period and not overdone and retro generic as some period films can be. There was a softness and realness to the grooming which made it second nature and not stereotypical or campy.

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3 comments:

Anonymous said...

Thanks for the info and especially the photos! I was similarly touched by Lang and Barrymore’s performance in the film which is a major plus because, truth be told, the only reason I wanted to see the thing in the first place is because I knew there just had to be some truly sumptuous costume design. Thanks for the link too—I hope it has a picture of my new favorite thing in the world: the fabulous butter yellow and purple party dress Drew wore while dancing with her lover.

Clueless in Boston said...

Great photos. I haven't heard of the film, but will definitely put it in my Netflix queue. I didn't recognize Drew Barrymore in the first photo with the darker hair and makeup, she looks stunning.

I like the style of women's clothes in the photos, they almost look current, but of course I don't know anything about fashion. However, I don't think good style ever goes out of fashion.

Dorothea's Closet Vintage said...

Hey there!! Just found your blog cruising for Steven Meisel pics (long story, but exciting for me!) and wanted add a) I sold the costumers a gown that was worn by Jessica Lange in a scene in this film, from my website www.dorotheasclosetvintage.com, deets on my own blog, www.real-vintage.com and b) I LOVE your blog!! I would love to exchange links? I'll be a faithful reader!!!

Ang