The beauty of Quentin Tarantino’s filmography lies in his exceptional fusion of style and substance. While his notorious dialogue and plot bring the films to life, it is Tarantino’s overall aesthetic where he truly solidifies himself in the pantheon of filmmakers. This attention to detail and general eye for the remarkable is exhibited in no stronger aspect than costume design. Although I personally wouldn’t recommend the life of a hit man or assassin, I can definitely recommend taking their style ques.
Vice Chic- (Jackie Brown)
Costume design should be an extension of the character; an objective thoroughly achieved in the styling of Samuel L. Jackson’s character in Jackie Brown. Nailing key trends like the revere collar, pastel colours and even a beret, this drug dealer demonstrates how to mix and match preppy pieces with casual garments that could be found at a second-hand store.
Foreign Espionage – (Inglorious Bastards)
A black tie event has always had its stylish restrictions, and what better way to stand out than to rock an all-white ensemble. Brad Pitt’s character exemplifies this style perfectly in Inglorious Bastards, as he pulls off the statement outfit with neat accessories like the pocket flower.
Floral Arrangements - (Pulp Fiction)
Tarantino’s Pulp Fiction is one of the significant cultural touchstones to come out of the nineties, and as such it is no surprise to see its characters rocking key nineties styles. Take Tim Roth for instance, with a timeless floral shirt layered over a basic tee and classic blue denim. A floral shirt will never go out of style and pared with an understated albeit classic norm-core outfit can really improve the shirt’s statement.
Sporty and Lethal – (Kill Bill)
Sportswear has never been more fashionably relevant; however, Uma Thurman flawlessly executes it a decade prior in the Kill Bill series. With major labels like Adidas and cult brands like Palace and Gosha Rubchinsky all bringing the tracksuit to the forefront of streetwear, one only has to look to Uma for glamourous inspiration.
Black, White, and Red (Blood) All Over – (Reservoir Dogs)
When you first see several suave criminals strutting down the street in the opening of Reservoir Dogs, you will never look at the black and white suit the same. Free of its business connotations, Tarantino’s debut film sees the black and white suit splattered with blood and spotted with bullet holes. Nevertheless, the film depicts the classic outfit in another context and thus offers brilliant inspiration for adding some formal flair to an everyday outfit. Note, rock some Clubmaster style shades to truly complete the look.