Sunglasses, Suits, and Shirts: Signature Fashion Items for 4 Iconic Filmmakers

When talking about fashion in the film industry, many choose to focus on what the actors wear on the screen or on red carpets. However, the film studio A24’s recent book, How Directors Dress, shines the spotlight on the oft-overlooked style of those behind the camera.

Assembled by photographers, film critics, and fashion journalists, the book contains archival snapshots and original essays on filmmakers’ fashion choices — delving into what stories they tell us about “directors, their lives, their movies, and the times in which they were made.”

So, beyond honouring the masterpieces created by iconic directors, we also have a look at how their filmmaking style and elements of their characters poke through the signature fashion items, completing their attire on and off the set.

Steven Spielberg

Much like his classic filmmaking characterised by long takes and master shots, Steven Spielberg’s style on set is equally timeless, typically composed of staples like knit vests, denim shirts, sports socks, trucker hats, and a pair of sunglasses. Beyond a fashionable accessory, Spielberg has also shared that the sunglasses are meant to help him tell how a set will be lit with greater clarity and detail. So, those looking to emulate not only the blockbuster filmmaker’s techniques but also his understated style can draw inspiration from OPSM’s selection of men’s sunglasses. These include the double-bridged GG0062S and the pilot-shaped Versace VE2199, which are both similar to Spielberg’s favourite aviators for a relaxed look.

Spike Lee

In addition to being lauded for his works that explore race relations and political struggle, Spike Lee is also known to be a snappy dresser. So, it’s no wonder that the American filmmaker collaborates with fashion brands that embody his sartorial sensibilities, such as the men’s apparel brand Stone Island, which is influenced by hip-hop and skateboarding subcultures. When Lee isn’t donning fancy suits on red carpets for famous film festivals like Cannes, he’s seen donning street culture-inspired pieces like varsity jackets, fitted caps, and Jordan 6s from the streetwear giant Nike.

Wes Anderson

The distinct and eccentric characters of Wes Anderson’s filmography have always embraced a unique sense of style — showcasing a preference for vintage fashion with statement pieces like printed socks, hairbands, and fur coats. However, a GQ article explains that the director dresses more practically by opting for weather-appropriate materials for his red carpet outfits. For example, summertime means Anderson relies on seersucker suits for a blend of style and breathability, and those looking to cop the same style can find a similarly nifty set from J.Crew. On the other hand, corduroy blazers and pants are Anderson’s dressier equivalents for fall and winter, which one can find from brands known for high-quality tailoring, such as Alex Mill and Todd Snyder.

Sofia Coppola

Like Anderson, Sofia Coppola’s films are also brought to life and made all the more vivid by the careful choices for costume design. For instance, her latest film, Priscilla, based on the memoir Elvis and Me by the eponymous Priscilla Presley, features a wardrobe that accurately reflects the titular character’s journey — from wearing snug mini dresses as a young girl to a housewife adapting to domestic expectations through a big up-do and tailored clothes. Meanwhile, Coppola’s approach to on-set attire is more utilitarian. She’s typically seen in her ‘uniform’ of men’s button-up shirts from the Parisian brand Charvet, tailored to hang loose to give her greater freedom of movement while directing.

If you enjoyed this article, continue reading X-Press Magazine’s film & TV section for more interesting news and features.