Movie costumes can be as iconic as the films themselves, often becoming synonymous with the characters who wear them. Some of these costumes are so intricately designed and memorable that they command staggering prices when auctioned. In this article, we explore the top 9 most expensive movie costumes ever made, delving into the stories behind these extravagant outfits and why they have achieved such high value. From Marilyn Monroe’s legendary dresses to the elaborate designs of modern sci-fi epics, these costumes represent the pinnacle of cinematic fashion and craftsmanship, capturing the imagination and admiration of fans and collectors alike.
Marilyn Monroe’s “The Seven Year Itch” Dress – $4.6 million
Marilyn Monroe’s iconic white dress from The Seven Year Itch is a piece of cinematic history. Designed by William Travilla, the dress became immortalized during the unforgettable scene where Monroe stands over a subway grate, and the dress is blown upwards by the subway breeze. This moment not only cemented Monroe’s status as a sex symbol but also made the dress an emblem of classic Hollywood glamour. The costume’s auction price of $4.6 million underscores its unparalleled significance in film history and its embodiment of Monroe’s lasting allure and iconic status. The staggering amount reflects not just the physical value of the costume but the cultural and historical impact it continues to have.
Audrey Hepburn’s “My Fair Lady” Dress – $3.7 million
Audrey Hepburn’s Ascot dress from My Fair Lady is a quintessential example of classic film costume design. Designed by Cecil Beaton, this black and white gown, complemented by a striking hat, exemplifies the elegance and sophistication of Hepburn’s character, Eliza Doolittle. The dress is not only a significant piece due to its association with Hepburn’s transformative role but also for its intricate design and the craftsmanship that went into its creation. The high auction price of $3.7 million reflects Hepburn’s timeless elegance and the impact of Beaton’s design on fashion and cinema.
Bert Lahr’s Cowardly Lion Costume from “The Wizard of Oz” – $3.077 million
Bert Lahr’s Cowardly Lion costume from The Wizard of Oz is one of the most cherished pieces in film history. Made from real lion pelts and weighing over 90 pounds, this costume was designed to bring to life one of the most memorable characters from the classic film. Its auction price of $3.077 million reflects its iconic status and the enduring popularity of the film. The costume’s craftsmanship and the role it played in making Lahr’s portrayal of the Cowardly Lion unforgettable contribute to its high value.
Marilyn Monroe’s Red Sequin Dress from “Gentlemen Prefer Blondes” – $1.2 million
Marilyn Monroe’s red sequin gown from Gentlemen Prefer Blondes is one of her most glamorous costumes. Designed by William Travilla, the dress is famous for Monroe’s performance of “Diamonds Are a Girl’s Best Friend,” a sequence that has become synonymous with Monroe’s allure and charm. The gown’s vibrant color and shimmering sequins made it a standout piece, and its auction price of $1.2 million reflects both Monroe’s status as a fashion icon and the dress’s significance in film history. The sale price underscores the continuing fascination with Monroe’s wardrobe and her impact on style.
Christopher Reeve’s Superman Suit – $359,375
Christopher Reeve’s Superman suit from the 1978 film Superman is an iconic representation of the superhero genre. Designed by Yvonne Blake, the bright blue and red suit with the famous “S” emblem is a symbol of Reeve’s definitive portrayal of the Man of Steel. The suit’s auction price of $359,375 reflects its cultural significance and the enduring legacy of Reeve’s performance. The costume remains a highly valued piece of superhero memorabilia.
Marilyn Monroe’s Pink Dress from “Gentlemen Prefer Blondes” – $310,000
Marilyn Monroe’s pink satin dress from Gentlemen Prefer Blondes is famous for her performance of “Diamonds Are a Girl’s Best Friend.” Designed by William Travilla, the dress is a symbol of Monroe’s glamour and appeal. Its auction price of $310,000 underscores the continued fascination with Monroe’s style and her iconic film wardrobe. The dress remains a celebrated piece of Hollywood fashion history.
Sigourney Weaver’s Spacesuit from “Alien” – $204,800
Sigourney Weaver’s spacesuit from Alien is a significant costume in sci-fi cinema. Worn by Weaver as Ellen Ripley, the suit is emblematic of the film’s groundbreaking special effects and intense atmosphere. The auction price of $204,800 reflects the costume’s importance in the genre and Weaver’s memorable performance. The suit remains a highly regarded piece of film history.
John Travolta’s Suit from “Saturday Night Fever” – $260,000
John Travolta’s white suit from Saturday Night Fever is an iconic symbol of the disco era. Designed by Patrizia von Brandenstein, the suit is memorable for its role in the film’s famous dance scenes. The auction price of $260,000 reflects the suit’s cultural impact and Travolta’s legendary performance. The costume remains a significant piece of 1970s fashion and film history.
Jack Nicholson’s Joker Suit from “Batman” (1989) – $125,000
Jack Nicholson’s Joker suit from Tim Burton’s 1989 Batman is a memorable and iconic costume. Designed by Bob Ringwood, the purple suit is associated with Nicholson’s unforgettable portrayal of the Joker. The auction price of $125,000 reflects the costume’s cultural impact and Nicholson’s iconic performance. The suit remains a notable piece of superhero film history.
This article originally appeared on Rarest.org.
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