The Best Dressed Horror Movies You Should Have on Your Radar

Costume design plays a bigger role in horror films than most people realize. It changes our perception of characters, gives clues to their killer personalities, and even subconsciously tries to disturb us in ways we don’t even realize. From well-dressed finale girls to couture-clad killers, this October we’ve compiled a list of the horror, thriller and slasher films that give new meaning to the term “fashion victim.”

The Neon Demon (2016)

This psychological horror, directed by Nicolas Winding Refn, offers a gory look at the horrors of the modeling industry and highlights the industry’s most controversial aspects, including high beauty standards, restrictive diets and violent competitiveness. And as you would expect from a film about high fashion editorials, The Neon Demon showcased some luxe looks, including pieces from Saint Laurent, Giles and Armani.

Suspiria (2018)

Luca Guadagninos Suspiria took the ’70s style of costumes from the original 1977 film and recreated it for the modern version. Inspired by another film on this list, Rosemary’s babyCostume designer Giulia Piersanti was inspired by vintage psychological thrillers when designing the hypnotic prints and capes for the film. But there was one piece that stood out; a dress made from real human hair extensions.

Rosemary’s Baby (1968)

The costumes in the film Rosemary’s baby had a huge influence on fashion and, thanks to costume designer Anthea Sylbert’s juxtaposition, even inspired designers such as Miuccia Prada and Joseph Altuzarra. As she explained, the ordinary outfits worn by the film’s protagonist are intended to reassure the audience, which in turn makes the plot even more disturbing.

The Substance (2024)

From Demi Moore’s bright yellow trench coat and wide-shouldered red dress to Margaret Qualley’s seductive pink bodysuit and black leather catsuit, The substance delivers just as much when it comes to fashion as it does when it comes to gore. Every costume in the film tells a story, from the diamond-embellished gown to the baby blue party dress of the final scene.

The Hunger (1983)

Costume designer Milena Canonero actually commissioned Yves Saint Laurent to create the vampiric high-fashion looks she wears The hungerFrom shoulder pads to fishnet stockings to sheer fabrics, the character’s wardrobe featured gothic influences, with references to the 1930s as a reference to Miriam’s “immortal” style.

American Psycho (2000)

Real people already know that American Psycho had some problems with the styling of its protagonist, Manhattan murderer Patrick Bateman. However, the film’s costume designer managed to enlist Valentino, Jean Paul Gaultier and many other high fashion brands to put together Bateman’s luxurious businessman wardrobe.

Bram Stoker’s Dracula (1992)

It’s not just about costuming Bram Stoker’s Dracula Embracing a Victorian sensibility seen in three-piece suits, ruffled dresses and top hats, but also (of course) requiring a vampiric touch, taking inspiration from the steampunk and gothic aesthetics of Victorian vamp fashion. A standout costume in the film is Dracula’s blood-red armor, designed by Eiko Ishioka.

The Birds (1963)

Costume designer Edith Head delivered old-fashioned elegance for protagonist Tippi Hedren’s outfits The birdsby dressing the character in predominantly cool tones at Hitchcock’s direction. Because he wanted her appearance to shine against the faded tones of Bodega Bay, the film’s backdrop. By appearing in bright, elegant clothing, the film’s violence appears even more destructive due to the comparison compared to Tippi’s outfits.

The Lost Boys (1987)

Pop culture’s vampires are perhaps the best-dressed supernatural villains in existence in the 1987s The Lost Boys is proof enough. But did you know that costume designer Susan Becker actually allowed the actors who played the four main vampires in the film to go out on Melrose Avenue and choose their own outfits, which added to the youthful appeal of the costumes?

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