Pretty Woman: Julia Roberts Iconic Costume Guide
Pretty Woman, the 1990s rom-com classic, gifted us with unforgettable fashion moments, largely thanks to Julia Roberts' character, Vivian Ward. Her transformation from a vibrant Hollywood Boulevard girl to a sophisticated Beverly Hills lady was mirrored perfectly in her wardrobe. So, you're thinking about recreating some of these iconic looks? Awesome! This guide will dive deep into the details of Julia Roberts' Pretty Woman costume, ensuring you nail every aspect, from the clothes to the attitude. Let's get started!
Recreating Vivian's Iconic Looks
The Hollywood Boulevard Outfit
When you think of Pretty Woman, the first image that pops into your head is likely Vivian’s initial outfit. This isn't just any ensemble; it's a statement, a symbol of her vibrant and unapologetic character. To perfectly capture this look, start with the white-and-blue mini dress. The dress needs to be short, fitted, and bold, reflecting Vivian's confidence and style. The key is finding a dress that isn't just any mini dress but one that embodies the playful yet slightly edgy vibe of early 90s fashion. Pair it with a red jacket. This is crucial! It adds a pop of color and a layer of intrigue. The jacket should be a vibrant, eye-catching red, something that screams confidence and flair. Think of it as the exclamation point of the outfit, drawing attention and adding a touch of boldness. Complete the look with those iconic black thigh-high boots. These aren't just any boots; they're a defining element of the outfit, adding a sense of daring and sophistication. Make sure they fit well and are comfortable enough to strut around in – after all, confidence is key to pulling off this look. Don't forget the accessories, though! A chunky belt cinches the waist and adds definition to the outfit, enhancing the overall silhouette. It's a small detail that makes a big difference. And, of course, the blonde wig. This is what truly transforms you into Vivian. Ensure the wig is styled to perfection, with voluminous curls that capture the character's signature look. With all these elements combined, you're not just wearing a costume but embodying the spirit of Vivian Ward – confident, stylish, and unforgettable.
The Rodeo Drive Dress
Transitioning from the streets to high-end boutiques, Vivian's style evolves dramatically, and no dress captures this transformation more beautifully than the Rodeo Drive dress. This dress is the epitome of elegance and sophistication, marking a pivotal moment in Vivian's journey. To get this look right, you should find a brown polka dot dress. The dress should be a midi-length, fitted, and feature a playful yet elegant polka dot pattern. The key is finding a dress that exudes class without sacrificing personality. Accessorize with white gloves. These add a touch of old-school glamour and sophistication, elevating the entire look. Make sure the gloves fit well and are made of a high-quality material to truly capture the essence of the outfit. Don't forget the wide-brimmed hat. This is essential for completing the look, adding a sense of mystery and intrigue. Choose a hat that complements the dress and fits your head perfectly. It should be stylish and functional, providing shade while adding a touch of flair. Add a delicate necklace to complete the ensemble. This piece of jewelry adds a subtle sparkle and draws attention to the neckline, enhancing the overall elegance of the outfit. The necklace should be understated yet sophisticated, perfectly complementing the dress and accessories. When all these elements come together, you're not just wearing a dress but embodying the grace and sophistication of Vivian Ward. This outfit is a symbol of her transformation, showcasing her ability to adapt and thrive in any environment. With the Rodeo Drive dress, you're ready to take on the world with confidence and style.
The Red Evening Gown
Ah, the red dress. Arguably the most iconic dress from the entire movie, the red evening gown Vivian wears to the opera is the epitome of elegance and sophistication. It’s a show-stopper, a head-turner, and a symbol of Vivian’s complete transformation. To nail this unforgettable look, you've got to get the dress right. The dress should be a long, red, off-the-shoulder gown. Look for a dress that cinches at the waist and flows gracefully to the floor. The color is key here – it needs to be a rich, vibrant red that commands attention without being too loud. The off-the-shoulder neckline is crucial for capturing the dress's elegant and timeless appeal. Pair the gown with long white gloves. These aren't just any gloves; they're an essential accessory that adds a touch of old Hollywood glamour. Make sure they fit snugly and extend past the elbow for the full effect. The contrast between the red dress and the white gloves is striking and unforgettable. And of course, the diamond necklace. This is the piece de resistance, the ultimate symbol of luxury and sophistication. While a real diamond necklace might be out of reach, a high-quality replica can still make a statement. Look for a necklace that sparkles and shines, drawing attention to your neckline and adding a touch of sparkle to the outfit. With all these elements in place, you're not just wearing a dress but embodying the elegance and grace of Vivian Ward. This outfit is a symbol of her transformation, showcasing her ability to adapt and thrive in any environment. With the red evening gown, you're ready to steal the show and make a lasting impression.
Accessorizing Like Vivian
Jewelry
Vivian’s jewelry is all about understated elegance, except for that necklace. Think delicate necklaces, simple earrings, and perhaps a classic watch. The goal is to complement the outfits, not overwhelm them. When selecting jewelry for your Pretty Woman inspired looks, opt for pieces that enhance rather than distract. For the Rodeo Drive dress, a delicate necklace with a small pendant can add a touch of sparkle without overpowering the outfit. Simple stud earrings can also be a great choice, adding a subtle touch of elegance. Remember, less is more when it comes to jewelry. The red evening gown calls for something a bit more dramatic, but even then, it's important to maintain a sense of balance. While the diamond necklace is the centerpiece of the outfit, it should be complemented by understated earrings and perhaps a simple bracelet. Avoid wearing too many pieces of jewelry, as this can detract from the overall look. The goal is to enhance your outfit, not overshadow it. Julia Roberts as Vivian knew how to accessorize to make the outfits.
Shoes
From thigh-high boots to elegant heels, Vivian’s shoe game is on point. Match the shoes to the outfit and the occasion. Comfort is key, especially if you plan on doing a lot of walking! The thigh-high boots are a must-have for the Hollywood Boulevard outfit, adding a touch of edginess and confidence to the look. Look for boots that fit well and are comfortable to walk in, as you'll likely be doing a lot of strutting. For the Rodeo Drive dress, opt for classic pumps in a neutral color. These shoes will complement the dress without drawing too much attention to themselves. Make sure they're comfortable enough to wear for an extended period, as you'll likely be doing a lot of shopping. The red evening gown calls for elegant heels that complement the dress and add height. Look for heels that are comfortable to walk in, as you'll likely be doing a lot of dancing. Avoid wearing shoes that are too flashy or distracting, as they can detract from the overall look. Remember, the goal is to enhance your outfit, not overshadow it. In every Pretty Woman costume, every detail is important.
Handbags
A stylish handbag can complete any outfit. Choose a bag that complements the overall look and is practical enough to carry your essentials. For the Hollywood Boulevard outfit, a small crossbody bag can be a great choice, as it's both stylish and functional. Look for a bag that's big enough to carry your phone, wallet, and keys, but not so big that it weighs you down. For the Rodeo Drive dress, a clutch or a small tote bag can add a touch of sophistication to the look. Choose a bag that complements the dress and is big enough to carry your essentials. The red evening gown calls for an elegant clutch that complements the dress and adds a touch of glamour. Look for a clutch that's small enough to carry in your hand but big enough to hold your phone, lipstick, and other essentials. Avoid wearing a bag that's too flashy or distracting, as it can detract from the overall look. Accessorizing your Julia Roberts Pretty Woman costume is important.
The Importance of Confidence
Ultimately, the most important accessory you can wear is confidence. Vivian Ward wasn’t just stylish; she was confident, charismatic, and unapologetically herself. No matter what you're wearing, confidence is key to truly embodying the spirit of Pretty Woman. It's about owning your look and rocking it with pride. Even if your costume isn't perfect, if you exude confidence, you'll still capture the essence of Vivian Ward. Confidence is contagious, so when you walk into a room radiating self-assurance, people will notice. It's about believing in yourself and knowing that you can rock any outfit, no matter what. So, whether you're wearing the Hollywood Boulevard outfit, the Rodeo Drive dress, or the red evening gown, remember to wear your confidence with pride. It's the one accessory that will truly make you shine. After all, Vivian Ward wasn't just a fashion icon; she was a symbol of self-acceptance and empowerment.
Where to Find the Pieces
Online Retailers
Websites like Amazon, ASOS, and Etsy are treasure troves for finding individual pieces of Vivian’s outfits. Use specific keywords like “blue and white mini dress” or “red opera gloves” to narrow your search. Online retailers offer a vast selection of clothing and accessories, making it easy to find exactly what you need for your Pretty Woman inspired looks. With just a few clicks, you can browse through hundreds of items and find the perfect pieces to complete your costume. Plus, many online retailers offer free shipping and returns, making it easy to try things on at home and return them if they don't fit. Don't be afraid to get creative and mix and match different pieces to create your own unique interpretation of Vivian's style. The key is to have fun and express yourself!
Thrift Stores
Don’t underestimate the power of a good thrift store! You might find vintage gems that perfectly capture the essence of Vivian’s style. Plus, it’s a more sustainable and budget-friendly option. Thrift stores are a great place to find unique and one-of-a-kind items that you won't find anywhere else. Plus, you can often find designer pieces at a fraction of the original price. When shopping at thrift stores, be patient and take your time to browse through the racks. You never know what hidden gems you might find. Look for items that are in good condition and fit well. Don't be afraid to get creative and mix and match different pieces to create your own unique interpretation of Vivian's style. The possibilities are endless!
Costume Shops
For ready-made costumes and accessories, costume shops are your best bet. They often carry complete Pretty Woman costumes, making it easy to transform into Vivian Ward with minimal effort. Costume shops offer a wide selection of costumes and accessories, making it easy to find everything you need for your Pretty Woman inspired looks. Plus, many costume shops offer costume rentals, which can be a great option if you only need the costume for a one-time event. When shopping at costume shops, be sure to try on the costume before you buy it to ensure that it fits well. Also, pay attention to the quality of the materials and construction to ensure that the costume is durable and will last.
Final Thoughts
Recreating Julia Roberts' Pretty Woman costume is more than just putting on clothes; it’s about embodying the spirit of a beloved character. With attention to detail and a dash of confidence, you can transform yourself into Vivian Ward and steal the show. So go ahead, have fun, and let your inner Pretty Woman shine!
