When you hear “Hollywood glam dresses,” what comes to mind?
- A flamboyant luxurious style?
- Sparkle and shine?
- Glitz and glamor-inspired dresses?
- Ultra-glamorous dresses associated with celebrities and red-carpet events?
If any of these comes to mind, then you are not far from track.
Hollywood glam dresses are dresses inspired by the glamorous look of the Hollywood stars. In this blog post, we talk extensively about Hollywood glam dresses from the history of Hollywood glam dresses, and different styles of Hollywood glam dresses to tips for wearing a Hollywood glam dress. If you have ever been curious about glam dresses, then you are in the right place. Let’s dive right into it!
What are Hollywood glam dresses
First, what are Glam dresses?
Glam dresses are a type of fashion inspiration that combines both glamor and sophistication elements. They are simple but sophisticated clothes but they make the wearer feel confident and beautiful. Basically, they are evening dresses and they often feature embellishments like sequins, beads, and feathers. Most times, they have a silhouette fitted to accentuate the figure.
Now, What exactly are these Hollywood glam dresses?
Hollywood glam dresses are dresses inspired by the glamourous and red-carpet look of the Hollywood stars. They are designed to make the wearer feel like a star with a classic old Hollywood vibe. These dresses are typically body-con. Modern Hollywood glam dresses incorporate trends like plunging necklines, sheer panels, and dramatic slits. They have various elements such as beading, lace, sequins, feathers, and tulle. The final effect of these fashions is a head-turning effect.
The History of Hollywood Glam Dresses
Hollywood glam dresses have been around for decades. Its history dates back to the golden age of Hollywood down to the modern era. The golden age was when the likes of Marilyn Monroe and Audrey Hepburn graced the silver screen with glam dresses designed to highlight their curves and make them feel like a star.
Over the years, these Hollywood glam dresses have evolved and changed but have maintained the symbol of sophistication. These dresses always carry a charm embodying elegance, sophistication, and luxury. From the golden age of cinema to the modern era, we will embark on a journey through them all to explore the rich tapestry and transition of Hollywood glam dresses.
The Golden Age (1920’s – 1940’s):
The very beginning of the Hollywood glam dress’s origin could be traced back to the 1920s when the silent film era was in full swing. Golden Twenties (Roaring Twenties/Jazz Age) was the introduction of the flapper dress embodying the spirit of liberation and rebellion accompanied by dropped waistlines, beaded cringe, and art deco motifs. Actresses like Clara Bow and Louise Brooks were known for their daring choices including skin-tight and neck-plunging dresses.
The 30s adopted bias-cut gowns which were designed to drape over the body and exude so much charisma and charm. Hollywood icons like Jean Harlow and Marlene Dietrich fascinated audiences with their sophisticated yet glamorous style. With the 40s came the iconic “New Look ” collection, Christian Dior’s debut for Dior’s fashion house. This was also when the classic Hollywood glam dresses came into play. Endorsed by Christian Dior, this collection was characterized by nipped-in waists, rounded shoulders, and full skirts, exuding glamor. Audrey Hepburn and Rita Hayworth were icons who manifested elegance in figure-flattering gowns.
The Silver Screen Sirens/Screen Goddesses (1950s):
This decade heralded a golden age of Hollywood glamor. The hourglass profile with form-fitting bodies and voluminous skirts were the order of the day, these outfits created an enchanting aura. Icons like Marilyn Monroe and Grace Keller symbolized the epitome of sophistication when in this fashion.
These iconic dresses were etched deep in old Hollywood fashion history. Hollywood’s influence on global fashion trends was solidified by designers like Givenchy who prided themselves in adorning the leading ladies on and off the screen. The designers made dresses that stood out on the red carpet and made a statement.
The Swinging Sixties and Sexy Seventies (1960s – 1970s):
In the 1960s, Fashion took a great swing; a revolution happened, a daring change challenging traditional whims of glamor. Mini skirts/dresses were introduced and they became a feature of the Hollywood glam dresses. This new short and sexier look was adorned with bold patterns and psychedelic prints and popularized by style icons like Brigitte Bardot.
The 1970s introduced yet another style. The disco era embraced a relaxed yet glamorous style. Flowing maxi dresses, peasant blouses, and fringe were the features of this style, a notch further they took a more daring approach like sequins, feathers, and metallic fabrics. Hollywood stars like Jane Fonda embraced this style epitomizing the carefree spirit of the decade.
The Decadent Eighties (1980s):
By the eighties, Hollywood glam had continued to usher in opulence and glamor, while reaching new heights of extravagance. Power dressing dominated the fashion terrain. Designers like Versace embodied the dazzling and sparkly aesthetic of the decade creating attention-grabbing dresses with sequins, and crystals. Hollywood stars like Madonna influenced trends with their daring fashion choices.
The Modern Era (1990s-Present):
The 1990s brought a return to minimalism, with sleek slip dresses. Designers like Calvin Klein introduced minimalism yet sophisticated style. The new millennium brought a fusion of old Hollywood glamor with trendy styles. Designers like Ellie Saab made this a reality by creating fashionable gowns illuminated with delicate embroidery and intricate beading.
Presently, Hollywood glam dresses continue to evolve. The allure of Hollywood fashion continues, enchanting and inspiring generations to come leaving an unforgettable mark on the world of fashion and beyond.
Different styles of Hollywood glam dresses
There are different styles of Hollywood glam dresses with each dating back to the twentieth century. Below are a few of these styles, the more prominent styles.
- Bias-cut gowns: These are the 1930s and 40s Hollywood glam iconic dresses. They were form-fitting and had draped sleeves and necklines. These dresses were mostly made from silk and satin. This style was pioneered by Madeleine Vionnet, a French designer.
- Christian Dior’s “New Look”: The French designer, Christian Dior debuted with this style in the 40s, 1947 precisely. This style was fitted at the waist and had full skirts with hems that fell below the knee. They were often worn with accessories such as gloves, hats, and high heels. This style also traverses into the 50s.
- Mini skirts/dresses: British fashion designer, Mary Quant is known as the inventor of mini skirts. The 1960s, 1963 precisely was when mini skirts first appeared in the window of the London historic “Bazaar” shop.
- Maxi dresses: High-end fashion designer, Oscar De La Renta, debuted with his innovative design, the Maxi dress, in 1967. The long and flowy dress was an eye-catching one for the women and it remained popular until the 1980s when it seemed to have gone into recession.
Celebrities who modeled the iconic Hollywood glam dress code
The iconic Hollywood styles would not come into the limelight without the celebrities who modeled the dresses. These celebrities include;
- Audrey Hepburn loop: Audrey’s style is one of grace and elegance. The black sheath dress she wore in “Breakfast at Tiffany’s,” emphasizes her style– simple, and classic. This elegant wear was designed by Hepburn De Givenchy, Audrey’s go-to designer. A lot of the style icon’s looks have been replicated by modern-day celebrities.
- Rita Hayworth: Rita Hayworth is one of the great style icons of the 40s and 50s. The black strapless gown she wore in “Gilda” was one of her most iconic looks. Her sensuous, hourglass figure and her flamboyant red hair were highlights of her glamorous looks. Rita mostly wore fitting dresses with cinched waists and full skirts. Her influence is still prominent in today’s fashion and her style embodies Hollywood glam.
- Marilyn Monroe: Marilyn is probably the most iconic model of the Hollywood glam dresses. One of her most popular looks was the hit halter dress she wore in the “The Seven Year Itch.” Her curvy figure and sultry style were the highlights. This dress has become a symbol of Old Hollywood glamor.
Marilyn also popularized a one-piece swimsuit with a deep V-neckline called “Monokini.” Her image is often used in advertising and other pop culture references, and her style still influences fashion.
- Grace Kelly: When you think of elegance and sophistication in Hollywood glam dresses, Grace would definitely pop into your head. Grace’s style was classic, simple dresses that emphasized her natural beauty. In “Rear Window,” a 1954 film, Grace wore a white halter dress with full skirts designed by Edith Head, an iconic Hollywood costume designer. This look would be one of her most iconic looks. Grace is still considered one of the most stylish stars of all time.
- Clara Bow: Clara was known for her short, bobbed hair, short dresses, and carefree attitude. Just like Louise Brooks, she was a flapper icon of the 20s. In the 1920s, she was one of the most popular icons of the silent film era. Clara’s look captures the rebellious spirit of the flapper era and her influence is still seen in modern times as fans of the flapper style model her looks. Her popular looks included dropped-waist, beaded accessories, and cloche hats.
- Louise Brooks: Louise was a star of the silent film era. She was often given credit for popularizing the flapper style. Her style was different from others, with her sleek, form-fitting dresses, bobbed hairstyle, and androgynous look. Louise’s looks were bold and innovative.
She wore several iconic Hollywood glam dresses including a beaded black dress she wore in the film “Pandora’s Box.” which was designed by Travis Banton, one of the most influential designers of the era. Louise’s style is still being referenced, especially her bobbed hairstyle.
Tips for wearing a Hollywood glam dress
Are you preparing for prom, a party, graduation, convocation, or what have you? Do you want to storm in looking all glamorous, elegant, and sophisticated? The few tips below will give you an idea of just what you want.
- Go for classic, simple silhouettes: You are trying to look glamorous, trust me classic yet simple drives home your message. A dress that is too over-the-top or too extravagant can end up looking costume-y, rather than glamorous. Go for dresses that scream sophisticated yet minimalistic. Glamorous, sophisticated, and classic is the Hollywood glam message.
- Wear simple, statement pieces and accessories: For a Hollywood glam dresses theme, you would really want to make a statement. Wear statement pieces like bold necklaces or earrings. For shoes, Classic and elegant heels or pumps would do. Choice of handbags? Just make it classic and trendy. A statement watch or sunglasses could top the cherry. Just be stylish and trendy.
- Fitting dresses are the best: The idea of the Hollywood glam dresses theme is your silhouettes. Be sure to choose a form-fitting dress to accentuate your silhouettes and flatter your figure. A poorly fitting dress could ruin the glam.
- The right fabrics are a sealed deal: Choose the right fabric. This glam dress screams sophistication, luxury, and elegance. Fabrics like silk and satin scream elegance and give a luxurious feel. Choosing the right fabric could make a difference.
- Classic hairstyle and makeup: If you want to glam, you must do it right.☺️ For a hairstyle, You want to go for a classic Hollywood glam, a curled updo or a smooth, sleek style should do the magic. A classic and polished makeup with a focus on the eyes and lips would really make a statement. A red lip is a great choice, bold pink or nude shade can also work well. Smoky or neutral eyeshadow goes really well too. Don’t forget to spray your favorite perfume to complete the look.
Conclusion
Hollywood glam dresses are a total classic look. If you are looking to change your style, or looking to add a touch of Hollywood glamor to your everyday style you are in the right place. A classic, simple, and elegant look would add color to your dress style.
From the silver screen to the red carpet, the Hollywood glam look has always been a source of inspiration. The good thing is, there are many ways to channel this iconic look. With the right dress, accessories, and attitude, you can feel like a true star. Just remember to keep it classy and elegant.
Would you be trying out the Hollywood glam dress theme?
Let me know in the comments.
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