Mid-Week Inspiration: The Sweaters of Volver

Volver, an amazing film by Almodovar, was released in 2006. But it wasn't until last week when we rented it from Netflix that I finally saw it. Not only is the film great, but the fashion is as well. In true Almodovar style the colors are bright and there are several prints. If I saw this film when it came out, I would have loved the fashion as much as I do now, but since I wasn't a knitter then, I wouldn't have been nearly as inspired by the wonderful sweaters in the film. Or at least not inspired to want to make them!

This bright leafy green one was my favorite. Several of the sweaters in this film are lacey open work, so truly I am wanting to get my hands on the patterns!

It's a dark scene in the film when Penelope Cruz's character Raimunda is wearing this red one. I found myself studying the stitches!

Gingham! Need I say more? 

And another textured knit, this time a set! 

Have any films inspired your knitting? 

My View: The Artist

I went to see The Artist over the weekend. It is one of the best movies I have seen in a very long time. Filmed in black and white, The Artist is a romantic comedy about a silent film star whose career goes down the drain when talkies become popular. Brilliantly, the movie itself is a silent movie complete with raised eyebrows, title cards, and amazing music. 

Of course the dashing late 1920's / early 1930's costumes are worth seeing this film alone. I now want to wear flapper dresses and take tap dance lessons! 

Have you seen it yet? What did you think? 

Fashionable History: Baby Face 1933

Once again the costumes designed by Orry-Kelly have made me gasp with delight while watching a film!

The Pre-Code Hollywood film Baby Face (1933) is a little gem of a film that raised a lot of eyebrows in the 30's. Barbara Stanwyck stars as down and out Lily Powers who soon discovers that she can use her sexuality to sleep her way to the top of the banking industry. A rags to riches story with a dark side...quintessential pre-code!

What I really loved about this film is the costumes. They play such an important role in guiding the viewer to the stages of her upwardly climb. They also provide us with a fantastic piece of history reflecting poverty, working class, and glitz in the heart of the Depression Era!

Lily Powers in a common day dress with her abusive father.

Lily as a mid-level employee at the bank.

Jealous and judgmental co-workers. I love the look on the blonde's face!

She's hit the big time!

She brought her friend Chico along for the ride and treats her well!

Watch the film for this dress alone! It is amazing!