The 2016 film La La Land, directed by Damien Chazelle, captured audiences' hearts with its vibrant story of love and dreams in Los Angeles and made a lasting impression with its impeccable fashion.
The film’s costumes, designed by Mary Zophres, play an integral role in setting the tone of the story, blending classic Hollywood glamour with contemporary sensibilities. Through its colourful wardrobe choices, La La Land is a celebration of both vintage style and modern chic.
From the very first scene, La La Land exudes a sense of timelessness, especially in its fashion. The film's vibrant opening number, "Another Day of Sun," features a dazzling parade of traffic-stopping outfits—think bright skirts, bold prints, and structured coats.
These clothes are reminiscent of classic movie musicals from the 1950s and 60s, like Singing in the Rain or West Side Story, bringing to mind the glamour of stars like Audrey Hepburn, Grace Kelly, and Judy Garland. The use of bright colours, flowing dresses, and tailored suits is a tribute to Hollywood's golden age, transporting viewers to a dreamy, cinematic past.
This juxtaposition between vintage and modern makes La La Land a visually stunning tribute to both Hollywood history and present-day fashion.
Emma Stone, who plays aspiring actress Mia, channels this retro-glam vibe throughout the film. Her wardrobe evolves as her character's journey unfolds, with simple yet elegant pieces that feel both aspirational and relatable.
From the mustard yellow dress she wears on her first date with Sebastian, to the red gown she wears at the Oscars-inspired scene, Mia’s outfits highlight her growth from a struggling actress to a star, with each look symbolising her emotional transformation.
While the film draws from the past, it also presents a modern perspective on fashion. Sebastian’s character, a jazz musician with a love for tradition, often wears suits with a slightly vintage twist, but they also feel contemporary and suited to his artistic lifestyle. His style is relaxed yet refined, often paired with retro accessories like scarves or hats, blending the old with the new.
One of the most striking elements of the film's fashion is its use of colour.
Mia’s wardrobe, on the other hand, is a perfect mix of casual yet chic. Her everyday look includes tailored trousers, simple blouses, and sneakers—a far cry from the elaborate costumes of classic film stars but still oozing a sense of effortless style. This juxtaposition between vintage and modern makes La La Land a visually stunning tribute to both Hollywood history and present-day fashion.
One of the most striking elements of the film's fashion is its use of colour. The costumes play a crucial role in setting the mood of each scene. Mia’s yellow dress in the opening number symbolizes hope and new beginnings, while her red gown at the film’s pivotal moment echoes passion and ambition.
The colour palette of the film—rich blues, reds, and yellows—mirrors the emotional highs and lows of the story, reinforcing the characters’ internal struggles and desires.
Fashion in La La Land is more than just a visual feast; it is an essential part of the film’s storytelling. The costumes offer a beautiful fusion of past and present, paying homage to Hollywood's classic glamour while also embracing modern-day sensibilities. Through its fashion, La La Land not only captures the essence of Los Angeles but also underscores the timeless allure of the city of dreams.