
I’ve been on a 17th-century fashion kick, so why not revisit some faves? Sarah mentioned her top five movies from this era, now it’s my turn (and no repeats!). Let’s go chronologically though the century, starting with…
1. Mary & George (2024)
OBVIOUSLY, I loved the hell out of this, for the costumes primarily, and the story wasn’t bad either. Focusing sharply on the 1610s when women’s court fashion was transitioning from the wheel farthingale to the high-waisted styles, this series showcased all the glorious weirdness of those styles. Plus the ruffs on both women and men were AH-MAY-ZING. Excellent work all around.
2. Tulip Fever (2017)
The Dutch really went to town on ruffs in the early to mid 17th century, ending up with the giant cartwheel ruffs often seen in portrait paintings of the time. This film magnificently captures some of that sartorial excess. Set in the 1630s, the story focuses on a woman who begins an affair with an artist painting her portrait for her husband. So we see her over-the-top glamorous posing gown in blue along with her “everyday” elaborate ruffs and elongated bodices. Plus great details of embroidered linens.
3. Girl With a Pearl Earring (2003)
While I didn’t love this movie, I really appreciated how the costumes gave the feeling of Vermeer’s paintings circa 1660s come to life. From the servant girl who becomes the titular focus to the painter’s family and community, the costume details are subtle and realistic, just like the period’s artwork.
4. The Miniaturist (2017)
This was an entertaining drama about a moderately wealthy household in 1686 Amsterdam. The costumes are not wild, but I enjoyed how realistic they appear with the main female character using different accessories to change the look of a dress from scene to scene. You really get a sense of a woman’s wardrobe here. I also like seeing all the proper caps!
5. The Wicked Lady (1983)
Is it cheesy? Yes. Was it deeply influential on young Trystan? Also yes. The costumes are over-the-top but also not wholly inaccurate for the vague ‘late 1600s’ period — and the OTT-ness fits the story! The hair is also gorgeous. 10 out of 10, would wear everything.
What are your favorite frock flicks set in the 17th century?
Three musketeers 1974
That was on Sarah’s list already (check the link in the first paragraph)!
The Witch 2015! Creepy story? Check! Great costumes? Double check! A riveting performance from Anya Taylor Joy? Triple check!
Agreed! While they’re not flashy, they are spot on period perfect.
The Witchy woman kind of goes off the rails with the cleavage, if I remember correctly?!