Thirty-five years after its release, ‘Pretty Woman’ remains iconic for its memorable fashion moments and influence on the romantic comedy genre.

Thirty-five years after its release, “Pretty Woman,” the iconic romantic comedy featuring Julia Roberts as Vivian Ward, continues to resonate with audiences, particularly its memorable fashion moments. One of the most celebrated scenes in the film features Vivian walking into an upscale store, a striking transformation symbolizing her newfound confidence and power. “You work on commission, right? Big mistake. Big! Huge!” her character declares, as she avenges an earlier encounter with two judgmental sales associates who had refused to assist her.

The scene not only showcases Roberts in a polished buttoned dress, white gloves, and a dramatic black-brimmed hat—a stark contrast to the casual attire worn just days before—but also highlights the influence of costume designer Marilyn Vance. Vance’s work in transforming Vivian’s wardrobe throughout the film is central to the character’s arc and has left a lasting impact on fashion in cinema. In an interview, Vance explained, “In each successive look, you begin to see her take his ‘less is more’ direction… By the end, she’s very simply put together—pure sophistication.” This meticulous attention to fashion serves as a metaphor for Vivian’s character growth, illustrating how clothing reflects her evolving self-worth.

The film has had a significant influence on the romantic comedy genre, inspiring a multitude of films to explore similar themes of transformation through fashion. Subsequent hits like “She’s All That” (1999), “The Princess Diaries” (2001), and “The Devil Wears Prada” (2006) have offered their own takes on character makeovers, each borrowing from the established narrative of personal transformation that “Pretty Woman” so effectively utilized.

Today, the lasting legacy of “Pretty Woman” is evident not only in film but also in popular culture, with many still invoking the iconic moments and themes introduced in the movie. As new generations discover the film, its blend of romance, comedy, and a compelling fashion narrative continues to attract audiences, securing its place in cinematic history.

Source: Noah Wire Services