Nocturnal Animals is an ultra tense meditation on violence, disappointment, and betrayal. But for all its aching, and much discussed beauty, it can be tough to watch at points. An ever masterful storyteller, director Tom Ford knew he needed at least the lightest touch of levity to allow the audience to catch its breath. Being the design legend he is, he turned to clothes. More specifically, he turned to Comme Des Garçons.
Talking to The Fashion Spot, Nocturnal Animals costume designer Arianne Phillips explains that the instantly-iconic outfit choice was all Tom. Noticing the women who frequent the Hollywood art word had a reputation for avant-garde fashion, he suggested they put Jena Malone in the most outlandish piece they could find. The choice? A vintage Comme Des Garçons harness. Speaking to Film School Rejects, Arianne adds, “I don’t know if it’s comic relief, but given the context, it definitely makes you giggle and smile.”
Personally we took the statement piece very seriously, but it was undoubtedly a tension breaker. Although the costume designer presses it was there more than a laugh, “There are a lot of almost cameos in our film and we really need to know who these characters are in a quick way and costumes can really help get you there.” Is there anything a Comme outfit can’t do?
Related: Are art people more stylish than fashion people?
Credits
Text Wendy Syfret
Image Focus Features