Roman Holiday and 1950s Fashion in Films

Roman holiday is a 1953 Hollywood romantic film which all scenes were shot in Rome. The film is about an escaped princess called Princess Ann, acted by Audrey Hepburn, who rebelled against her royal requirements and privileged life to experience Rome on her own. During her escape, she met a journalist Joe Bradley, a role played by Gregory Peck who supposedly was to interview Princess Ann. The movie ends with her returning to her duty as a princess while keeping the adventurous and romantic memories of Rome with Bradley. The film enjoyed great success with numerous awards won, including Hepburn’s Best Actress in Academy Award, Golden Globe Award, New York Film Critics Circle and BAFTA Award for Best British Actress. Edith Head, the fashion and character designer of the film was also recognized by the industry with Academy Award for Best Costume Design and Black-and-White Award. The film was also picked to be preserved in the United States National Film Registry to document the glory of the 1950s.

 

William Wyler, the producer and director of Roman Holiday, was known for many other successful movies at the time with his sensational touch on the narration and settings. He is described as a competent, renowned and proficient director who is also known for using ordinary characters for real-life circumstances in his movies. According to his manifestation, Audrey Hepburn landed the role of Princess Ann after his failure to find other actresses he thought fit. Hepburn proved herself worthy of the role after a screen test. Though she had taken part in European movies, this was her first major role in the American movie.[1] Wyler invited Edith Head as the visual guarantor to the romantic story. Head worked closely with Hepburn with the costume design as well as teaching her the transformation in body movement between being the princess and a normal girl[2]. She also suggested the rebellious short hair look which later on set a unique trend in 1950s fashion. Gregory Peck who played the role of Joe in the movie was only granted a star billing for the film. However, later in time, Hepburn was also included after Peck requested Wyler to give her a star billing too.  She did an exceptional work for the film made her star winning for it and for other movies later.

 

In the picture, Hepburn and Peck look relaxed with uplifting smiles on both faces. They are holding hands while Hepburn leans forward her body toward Peck and Peck slowly walking down the Roman stairs. She wears midi over-knee skirt with a white blouse with rolled up sleeves separated by a belt. The belt emphasizes her tiny waist and elongates her legs. And her string sandals in Greek and Roman make the look more relaxed. Together with her short hair, she does not exhibit any sophistication of her role- the royal princess. She is just a young woman who is having fun in the streets of Rome with her casual clothes. On the other hand, Peck is dressed in a comparably more formal suit with a tie just as expected of a journalist’s interviewing look. The suits were not perfectly skimmed to the body during 1953. Peck wore loose fit high waist trousers with his tie tackled into the belt. The jacket is long and covers the hip. And people in the background are seated some standing showing a hassle-free mood around.

 

According to Head, she was trying to bring a casual and informal look as Hepburn was a princess trying to blend in and it worked. Hepburn was playing the role of a princess disguising herself to appear as a common girl on the streets. Head had to find a costume that brought out this by looking at the trends of Rome at the time as well as the weather.[3] Therefore, form a princess outfit she needed something simple. The sandals deed the magic as well as the rolled-up sleeves on a hot temperature of Rome during summer.

 

The 1950s are acknowledged for the post-war restoration and gradual growth in prosperity. And the fashion is characterized by femininity and conformity[4]. While war and restrictions were gradually over, ultra-feminine looks with refined, tailored garments that skimmed the body’s contours were expected with the ideology of getting women out of work and back into the home. The New Look, initiated in 1947 by Christian Dior, resonated with the zeitgeist to emphasize femininity that it could make women who wore it at once sexy and desirable and also matronly and maternal.[5] The public perceived the transformation as the psychological need for changing and moving away from boxy silhouette from the 1940s war-time while feminists were concerned about the waistline as an unappreciated and irresponsible attempt to curtail women’s freedom.

 

Introduction of TV in the living rooms and the engagement in leisure and holiday activities directly boosted the progression of Hollywood and lifestyle needs. Movies were the most common form of storyline entertainment in America with a large number of audiences. Therefore, the movies mostly mirrored the social attitudes of the people or advocates for the mainstream ideology at the time which led the rise of “women’s film”[6] that empowers women’s femininity by not only distinguishing the physical appearance in the film, but also and with narratives of her personality and storyline. For example, Princess Ann is perceived as the center of the story with supporters, admirers, a photographer in pursuit trying to catch sight of her. The plot design enables the star phenomena for the narration[7].

 

William Wyler had directed several films in the 1950’s. In 1951, he produced and directed Detective Story, Roman Holiday in 1953 and Friendly Persuasion in 1956 respectively. In 1959, he directed the legendary successful box office film Ben-Hur that had won 11 Oscars. Though previously known for drama, Wyler wanted to try comedy and thus directed Roman Holiday. His first choice to play the role of Joe Bradley was Grant who declined the role. He then managed to convince Peck to take the role. Getting a character for Princess Ann was trickier. His first choice was Elizabeth Taylor then Jean Simmons who were both unavailable. He then went searching for a character of which he landed on Audrey Hepburn who had to go through a screen test before being taken. And after the test shot, he had to convince Paramount to allow him to shoot on sight in Italy and then talk Italian officials into allowing them to shoot since the officials thought the film was making fun of common Italians[8].

 

The 1950s was a period when most people felt free and women could make several decisions, go to work and support their families from their incomes. The film is about a princess feeling pressurized by her obligations and attire that she feels uncomfortable in. She then decided to change this and take matters into her own hands. The same is true for most things at the time as it was a time of massive transition.

 

Conclusively, the film’s success is attributed to the collaboration between its major contributors. Edith Head’s enhancement in femininity in both fashion and character design, William Wyler’s sensational narration, and Audrey Hepburn’s adaptability in expression and body movement had a synchrony that helped them work together to produce an exceptional movie that was recognized by both public and the industry.

[1] Neil Sinyard. A wonderful heart: the films of William Wyler. Jefferson, North Carolina: McFarland& Company, Inc., 2013. Page 122.

[2] Rebecca Adams. “Edith Head’s Roman Holiday Costumes Made Audrey Hepburn An Instant Star” Huffingtonpost.com. https://www.huffingtonpost.com/2013/10/28/edith-head-roman-holiday_n_4169760.html

[3] Jorgensen, Jay. Edith Head: The Life and Times of Hollywood’s Celebrated Costume Designer. Philadelphia: Running Press; New York: LifeTime Media, 2010. P192-195.

 

[4] Valerie D Mendes. “1946- 1956 Femininity and Conformity”/ Fashion Since 1900. London: Thames & Hudson,

  1. Page 126.

[5] Stella Bruzzi. “It will be a Magnificent Obsession: Femininity, Desire and the New Look in 1950s Hollywood Melodrama”. In Fashion in Film, edited by Munich, Adrienne. Bloomington, Indiana: Indiana University Press, 2011. Page 161.

[6] Ibid. 5. Page 163.

[7] Andersson, Therese. “Fashioning the fashion princess: mediation- transformation- stardom” Journal of Aesthetics and Culture. NO.1, Vol.4 (2012): http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.3402/jac.v4i0.5331?scroll=top&needAccess=true

[8] Neil Sinyard. A wonderful heart: the films of William Wyler. Jefferson, North Carolina: McFarland& Company, Inc., 2013. Page 120.

Bibliography

Adams, Rebecca. “Edith Head’s Roman Holiday Costumes Made Audrey Hepburn An Instant Star” published on Huffingtonpost.com. (Accessed October 29th, 2017). https://www.huffingtonpost.com/2013/10/28/edith-head-roman-holiday_n_4169760.html

Andersson, Therese. “Fashioning the fashion princess: mediation- transformation- stardom” Journal of Aesthetics and Culture. NO.1, Vol.4 (2012): http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.3402/jac.v4i0.5331?scroll=top&needAccess=true

Bruzzi, Stella. “It will be a magnificent obsession: Femininity, Desire and the New Look in 1950s Hollywood Melodrama”. In Fashion in Film, edited by Munich, Adrienne. Bloomington, Indiana: Indiana University Press, 2011.

Head, Edith. How to Dress for Success. New York: Penguin Random House, 1967.

Jorgensen, Jay. Edith Head: The Life and Times of Hollywood’s Celebrated Costume Designer. Philadelphia: Running Press; New York: LifeTime Media, 2010. P192-195.

Mendes, Valerie D. “1946- 1956 Femininity and Conformity” In Fashion Since 1900. London: Thames & Hudson, 2010.

Sinyard, Neil. A wonderful heart: the films of William Wyler. Jefferson, North Carolina: McFarland& Company, Inc., 2013.

Stutesman, Drake. “Costume Design, or What Is Fashion in Film?” In Fashion in Film, edited by Munich, Adrienne. Bloomington, Indiana: Indiana University Press, 2011.

Wyler, William. William Wyler’s production of Roman Holiday. (Place of publication not identified; publishers not identified), 1952.

611 thoughts on “Roman Holiday and 1950s Fashion in Films

  1. India’s most trusted online matka play platform – MatkaX. We offer Satta Matka, Kalyan Matka, Rajdhani Matka, Satta King, Matka Guessing, Fastest Satta Matka Results and more. We have been working more than 15 years in this industry and we always try to give you the best tips and tricks so that you can recover your loss. So, why are you waiting just to register with us and play matka online.Online Matka Play

  2. We are a surety agency that focuses on the unique needs of our clients and providing tailored bond programs that offer them the most competitive advantage for their business. We want to continue to satisfy our customers, educate our employees, and aid in the success of our partners. For more details about Contract Bonds, Please visit our site.

  3. Want to win real cash from matka platform? MatkaPlay app will help you win huge amounts with 100% support. We will help you win additional amounts and play matka online without the fear of losing your points. Online Matka Play

  4. RetireUS is a financial wellness platform that gives you cost effective access to a team of financial professionals.We created time saving technology to surround you with a team of financial experts, tools, and resources.This makes it easy for you to understand your financial needs, develop strong financial habits, and manage your finances like a professional.

  5. We know how important great looking floor tiles can be. We also know that cleaning these kinds of floors and countertops is definitely not a “Easy” job. Stone cleaning is a different animal than travertine cleaning. There’s a difference between countertop cleaning and shower sealing. That is why we offer a wide array of cleaning services to expertly handle your needs precisely how you need them handled. Refresh the look of your tile and stone floors now with Silver Olas. Our advanced techniques combined with professional technicians mean a more powerful clean. For more details, you can visit https://silverolas.com/

  6. Hello guys, if you also want to spend time with a good and right girl, then now you can be happy because we are going to tell you about a very famous and safe escort agency in Delhi. You can book a girl sitting at home and she is available 24*7 whenever you want, you can book a girl on our website or on Pay Desi Bhabi Russian Air Hostess Model Girl Celebrity and you can also book our escorts. Provide like many types of discount full night discount and day night anytime you can book girl our escorts agency also provide you in office hotel home beer bar restaurant name of our escorts agency is Uttam Nagar Escorts Hai Thanks So Much

  7. Streamlined Parking Solutions with RFID Based Parking
    Revolutionize your parking experience with our RFID-based parking system. Bid farewell to the traditional parking woes as RFID technology simplifies entry and exit. No more fumbling for tickets; our system effortlessly identifies and manages your parking needs. Experience parking convenience redefined with RFID innovation.

    https://www.curopark.com/

  8. Play satta with an enhanced online matka play platform that makes you an Online Satta Matka King with single, Jodi, double Patti etc. and many more. Win Real Cash Online with minimum deposits, with ample of offers and latest updated offers in the market.Online Matka PlayPl

  9. Absolutely loved reading your blog post! Your insights on the topic are truly thought-provoking and well-researched. The way you explained was incredibly clear and engaging. I am a Programming Assignment Help provider with the team of experts. Our seasoned programmers and educators specialize in a wide array of coding languages and topics. We ensure timely delivery of well-documented, original solutions tailored to your specific needs. Our goal is to not only help you complete assignments but also enhance your programming skills and knowledge. Count on us for reliable, confidential, and quality-driven programming assignment support, backed by a commitment to your academic and professional success. Trust us to be your partner in conquering coding challenges and achieving excellence.

  10. I highly recommend seeking MBA Assignment Help from Malaysian law academic experts. Their deep understanding of local laws and regulations can provide invaluable insights for your assignments. With their expertise, you can expect well-researched and tailored content that aligns perfectly with Malaysian legal contexts. This specialized support ensures your assignments stand out and meet the highest academic standards. Don’t hesitate to tap into this valuable resource for a successful academic journey in Malaysia!

  11. If your outlook spell check not working, grammar, and spelling mistakes won’t be flagged, or correctly spelt words may come up as incorrect. Our guide will help you to overcome your problem and know about the reasons behind Outlook spellcheck is not working. We will help you with our complete experience to overcome your problem with Outlook spell check not working.

  12. I appreciate the positive and uplifting vibe you bring to your writing. Keep up the fantastic work, and I can’t wait to read more of your insightful posts! If You Want any assessment help Visit out Site AssesmentHelp.com

  13. Explore the ultimate thrill of “Online Matka Play” at eMatka Play! Dive into the world of exhilarating betting, test your luck, and stand a chance to win big prizes. Join us for an electrifying gaming experience today!Online Matka Play

  14. We at allassignmenthelp have earned the title of trust and confidence by bringing a Community Service Writing Service. Our panel of experts and quality is named after our work and dedication. The work to be done can be difficult for students to handle, therefore, our experts make sure to bring mental blogging assignments at affordable prices. Our experienced and trained experts to which you can actually opt for US java assignment help that produce a customized help writing service for all possible deadlines. We pride ourselves on producing 100% quality non-copy, high-quality help with java assignments for graduates, graduates, and Ph.D. aspiring. With the strength of so many specialists from the US, we deliver jobs and educational assignments conferring to customer needs and supplies.

  15. We at allassignmenthelp have earned the title of trust and confidence by bringing a Community Service Writing Service. Our panel of experts and quality is named after our work and dedication. The work to be done can be difficult for students to handle, therefore, our experts make sure to bring mental blogging assignments at affordable prices. Our experienced and trained experts to which you can actually opt for java assignment helper in USA that produce a customized help writing service for all possible deadlines. We pride ourselves on producing 100% quality non-copy, high-quality help with java assignments for graduates, graduates, and Ph.D. aspiring. With the strength of so many specialists from the US, we deliver jobs and educational assignments conferring to customer needs and supplies.

  16. Welcome to our Dissertation Help service, where we are dedicated to assisting students in their journey towards crafting exceptional dissertations. As one of the most significant academic endeavors, a dissertation requires rigorous research, critical analysis, and coherent presentation of findings. We understand the challenges you may face throughout this process, and our mission is to provide comprehensive support to ensure your dissertation stands out as a testament to your scholarly abilities.

  17. A Grammar Checker is a sophisticated software tool designed to review and improve written content by identifying and correcting grammar, punctuation, and spelling errors. It serves as a virtual proofreader, ensuring that your written communication is clear, professional, and error-free at MyAssignmentHelp com

  18. Secure your business with a cheap high-risk merchant account tailored to your needs. In today’s dynamic market, certain industries face unique challenges and higher levels of risk. Our high-risk merchant account solutions provide robust safeguards, ensuring smooth payment processing for businesses operating in such environments. Whether you’re in gaming, CBD, adult entertainment, or another high-risk sector, our specialized services offer reliability, security, and compliance. Don’t let risk hold you back; empower your business with a high-risk merchant account and gain the peace of mind you need to thrive in your industry.

  19. VIP Escort in Chandigarh are easily available through the leading Chandigarh Independent Escort Service provider, Call Girls Agency No.1. With over 100+ Models and Housewife Escorts to choose from, they offer a wide range of options. Whether you need their services during the day or night, they are available 24/7. Contact them now for an unforgettable experience.
    https://callsexy.in/

  20. Thanks for sharing with us such an wonderful post. Are you tired of struggling with academic TAFE Assignments? Look no further! Our team of experienced professionals at TAFE Assignment Help is here to provide you with top-notch academic assistance. Our trusted services have been helping students achieve academic success for years. Don’t let the stress of assessments weigh you down – let us help you with your assignments! Don’t delay – contact us today!

  21. The Qatar Airways Bali Office is a valuable and significant resource for visitors to Bali, Indonesia who are looking for premium airline services. This office, which is located in a desirable neighborhood on the lovely island of Bali, serves as a dedicated hub for passengers of Qatar Airways. It offers a range of services designed to improve the travel process.

  22. HRM Assignment Help has truly been a game-changer for me. Their expertise and dedication shine through in every assignment they assist with. Their team of HR professionals and academic experts ensures that I consistently deliver high-quality work. They’ve not only improved my grades but also deepened my understanding of HRM concepts. Their commitment to meeting deadlines and maintaining confidentiality is impressive. I wholeheartedly recommend HRM Assignment Help to all HRM students seeking academic excellence. With their support, I’ve navigated my coursework with confidence and reduced the stress associated with challenging assignments. Thank you, HRM Assignment Help!

  23. We give you best results not promises professional SEO services in india. Increase traffic. Improve your ranking. 100% Satisfaction. Generate leads. Discuss your project Now. Grow your Business Online. 10+ years of experience. Revamp user experience. Data Reporting.

  24. These are extremely top notch considerations concerning writing for a blog. You helped me to earnestly see your abilities inside the artworks you compose. Each such tad of material manifest to be created close by many past material. Escorts in Vijayapura

  25. If you have a flight reservation with Qatar Airways but need to cancel it immediately for whatever reason. You have two options for Qatar airways cancellation policy : online or over the phone. To start the cancellation procedure, you must have your flight confirmation number available to input or provide to the airline executive. You will be informed about your refund choices when the Qatar Airways cancellation procedure is finished.

  26. Guys, there is always time for enjoying quality sexual time. Yes, when you get Isabelle of Cambridge , then you are going to love it. She is 22 years old college girl. Please do check out escorts in Cambridge for discounts and hot services too. You will enjoy her blowjob or handjob during short breaks.Men often book her for post-lunch time and feel totally satisfied. Isabelle is perfect for any escort service that you are keen for. You will enjoy getting a young man’s feet during sex time

  27. do my online trigonometry class for me and mathematics students at the undergraduate and graduate levels face unique challenges. Students on campus seldom receive enough assistance because of inadequate resources or fierce rivalry from their peers. They may have periods where they are completely unable to write anything, or where they are unable to go forward in solving an issue. In both circumstances, paying someone to take my online trigonometry class, professionals can provide you with the highest quality service possible.

  28. Generally, CBSE class 12 exams are conducted during the month of March. Before that, both teachers and students need to complete the class 12 syllabus. After the completion of the syllabus, you can take the help of CBSE Sample Paper Class 12 as it provides more questions. This can help you to understand the weak points and can accordingly work upon it.

  29. Are you looking for the best construction company in India? Do you want to work with a civil engineering company that has a proven track record of delivering quality projects on time and within budget? If yes, then you should choose VRC Construction, a leading name in the construction industry. VRC Construction is a civil engineering company in India that offers a wide range of services, such as building construction, road construction, bridge construction, highway construction, industrial projects, and more. Contact us today and get a free quote for your project.

  30. Are you looking for a lawn mowing services Auckland that can make your lawn look neat and beautiful? Do you need a cleaning company Auckland that can take care of your home or office cleaning needs? If yes, then you should contact Buttar City Care Services, a company that offers both lawn mowing and cleaning services at affordable prices. We have a team of friendly and professional staff who use the latest equipment and eco-friendly products to ensure your satisfaction. We offer flexible and customized services to suit your schedule and budget. You can choose from our weekly, monthly, or one-off services. Visit our website to find out more about our services and testimonials from our happy customers.

  31. If you are looking for a reliable and professional Auckland car wreckers service, you have come to the right place. JCP Car Parts is a leading company that offers car removals Auckland and pays top cash for your unwanted vehicles. Whether you have a car, truck, van, ute, or 4×4, we’ll buy it from you and recycle it in an eco-friendly way. You can get a free quote online or by calling 0800 57 27 87. We also sell quality used auto parts at affordable prices. Visit our website to find out more about our services and products.

  32. If you are looking for high-quality, eco-friendly, and durable WPC board and WPC moulding products in India, the United States, or the United Kingdom, look no further than JKD Plastics. We are a leading manufacturer and supplier of wood and plastic composite (WPC) products that are suitable for various interior and exterior applications. Whether you need WPC doors, WPC door frame, WPC chokhat, or WPC furniture, we have it all. Contact us today for a free quote and sample.

  33. If you are searching for a good and safe escorts agency, then you will be very happy to know that there is a very famous and good escorts agency in Delhi named Vasant Kunj Escorts or you can book all types of girls like Desi bhabhi russian air hostess and this agency also gives you many types of offers from which you will be benefited a lot and you can get this service done at your home hotel office also our escorts girl is very beautiful and sexy thank you so much visit again
    https://www.missdelhiescort.com/vasant-kunj-escorts.html

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *