Cinema Style: North By Northwest

When actress Eva Marie Saint and director Alfred Hitchcock didn't like the costumes provided by MGM studios, they took matters into their own hands. For North by Northwest (full review here), Saint got an entire wardrobe picked out in New York's Bergdorf by herself and her director. Saint later said of the adventure, that they went for timeless pieces to keep the picture likewise timeless. Considering how much we watch Hitchcock even today, clearly, he was onto things.
North by Northwest Outfit, movie, film, cinema style,

North by Northwest Outfit, movie, film, cinema style,

Shirt, Bolero, Pencil Skirt, Shoes, Glasses, Necklace

When Saint's character, Eve Kendall, first meets the dashing hero (played by Cary Grant) on a train, she's wearing a sensible, travel look. Mostly neutral pieces allow the necklace to be front and center. The quality of the items (and the arch of Sain'ts eyebrow at Grant's more absurd lies) are what seduces.

Saint stuns in this red number, which is worn to an art auction in the city. The striking red and black pattern is rare and is at the same time seductive yet romantic. What a boon then, to find this skirt in the same color and pattern. To break up such a busy, almost hypnotic floral, as well as make it a more modern look, add a black lace shirt. A ruby necklace furthers the effect, while a gold mens' wristwatch gives a sense of bourgeoise.

Shirt, Skirt, Shoes, Necklace (Similar Here), Watch, Purse, Nail Polish

9 comments

Suzanne Carillo Style Files April 4, 2014 at 8:02 AM

I've never seen this film. Need to check for it on Netflix.

Have a great weekend!

bisous
Suzanne
Ali Hval April 4, 2014 at 9:31 AM

ohmygoodness, this is so fun! I love how you recreated the outfit. I've seen a few of AH's movies, but I need to see more. I also realized that Alfred Hitchcock and I have the same initials and that threw me off for a minute.
Rita April 4, 2014 at 3:23 PM

Now I really need to watch the movie this weekend!
Taylor Hart April 5, 2014 at 7:00 AM

OMG! I'm so glad you posted this! I love, love, love Carey Grant!! North by Northwest is one of my all time favorite movies! The corn field.... classic! This is great!!!
xoxo
Taylor
http://www.nothingbutapigeon.com/
Midnight Cowgirl April 6, 2014 at 7:36 PM

Such a stylish movie, and that red skirt is perfect!
dressdressy April 8, 2014 at 2:37 AM

These dress are just perfect! It's wonderful to feel like a princess with it!
Marlen April 11, 2014 at 10:07 AM

oh my goodness, you really did find a skirt in that same pattern! now that's impressive. and that's so fun she got to go pick out her costumes herself- now that's a job i'd take pleasure in ;)

xo marlen
Messages on a Napkin