Inspiration for the Best Dressed Competition at the Cary Grant Festival

Posted on By Charlotte Crofts

To Catch A Thief Mood Board

With the Cary Grant Festival just around the corner, it’s time to start planning your outfits for the best dressed competition! This year, our gala film is To Catch A Thief, featuring the stunning costumes designed by the legendary Edith Head. Let’s dive into some style inspiration to help you channel the glamour of Cary Grant and his leading ladies.

Cary Grant wasn’t just a silver screen legend; he was a style icon, too. His effortless elegance and timeless appeal continue to inspire fashion trends today.

Key elements of Cary Grant’s style:

  • Tailored Suits: Grant was a master of the tailored suit. His suits were always impeccably fitted, with clean lines and a perfect drape.
  • Casual Chic: Even in casual wear, Grant exuded a certain sophistication. Think crisp white shirts, well-cut trousers, and stylish sweaters.
  • Accessories: Grant knew the power of a well-chosen accessory. A pocket square, a stylish hat, or a pair of sunglasses could elevate any outfit.
Cary Grant’s outfits in To Catch A Thief

Cary Grant’s suave and sophisticated style in To Catch A Thief is a masterclass in classic men’s fashion. His tailored suits and effortless charm make him the epitome of elegance and style but it’s his casual looks in the film which are really memorable and create a sense of John Robie’s character as an ex-acrobat and retired jewellery thief, as outlined this BAMF Style post (Best Action Movies Fashion).

“Do you mind if I put on something more formal?” – Cary Grant’s Breton jumper in To Catch A Thief

Cary Grant’s Suit in North by Northwest is often voted the best suit in the history of cinema. This iconic look is a great source of inspiration for those aiming to capture the essence of Cary Grant’s timeless style. His sunglasses have been

Jessie Royce Landis and Cary Grant (and Cary Grant’s suit) in North by Northwest (dir. by Alfred Hitchcock, 1959)
Cary Grant and Eva Marie Saint in North by Northwest. Image by © Sunset Boulevard/Corbis
Oliver Peoples Cary Grant Sunglasses inspired by those worn in the film, in collaboration with his estate

Want to learn more about the man behind the style? For more on Cary Grant’s impeccable fashion sense, take a look at this GQ article that delves into his principles of good dress. And check out the latest issue of Detail magazine (#14), where Michael W. Salter delves into the “method and madness behind Grant’s very particular style decisions.”

Cary Grant on the cover of Detail Magazine #14
“Cary on regardless. ‘Style begins and ends with Cary Grant’ wrote Alan Flusser. But Cary Grant’s elegance was not merely a product of his sartorial choices, it was a reflection of his intrinsic grace, wit and deportment. He just made it all look so easy… and that took a lot of effort” (Michael W Salter)

Grace Kelly’s wardrobe in To Catch A Thief is the epitome of 1950s elegance. Designed by Edith Head, her outfits range from chic casual wear to breathtaking evening gowns. For inspiration, check out this Classic Critics Corner post highlighting ten of her most elegant outfits from the film. Think flowing chiffon, sophisticated silhouettes, and timeless accessories. Below are several of Edith Head’s designs for the film:

Below is a photo of Grace Kelly with Edith Head, showcasing the collaboration that brought such iconic fashion to the screen. Their work together is a testament to the power of costume design in creating memorable film moments.

Grace Kelly with Edith Head on the set of To Catch A Thief (1955)

The film culminates in an extended masquerade ball sequence, where the 1950s meets 18th-century style in all its technicolor glory. Edith Head pulls out all the stops. The lavish 18th-century masquerade costumes, while visually stunning, reflect the racial and gender biases prevalent in both the 18th century and the mid-20th century Hollywood film industry, as outlined in this great blogpost from Frock Flicks.

Grace Kelly and Jessie Royce Landis at the masked ball in To Catch A Thief

So, as you prepare for the Cary Comes Home Festival, why not channel your inner Grace Kelly or Cary Grant? Whether you’re attending the gala screening or a casual daytime event, there’s an opportunity to dress with style and sophistication. Remember, it’s not just about looking good; it’s about feeling confident and expressing your individuality.

Join the Fun!

Take this opportunity to immerse yourself in the charm of classic Hollywood fashion. Whether you’re inspired by Grace Kelly’s elegant gowns or Cary Grant’s timeless suits, there’s plenty of inspiration to help you stand out at the festival. Don’t forget to visit our website for all the details on how to participate in the best dressed competition and to plan your festival experience. See you at the festival, dressed to impress! 🌟

Online Events for More Inspiration

CINEMATIC SYTLE

Join us for a deep dive into film and fashion, exploring the wardrobes of Cary Grant and his leading ladies. This event will give you plenty of ideas for the best dressed competition!

TO CATCH A SPY

Discover the new sequel to the original novel, approved by the estate of David Dodge.

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