Great Robes of Cinema
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In Uncategorized Posted November 02, 2021
A running list of the greatest robes in cinema history. For science.
Michael York as Logan 5 – LOGAN’S RUN (1976)
The epitome of minimalism and comfort. Not too showy, and maintains the Sandman aesthetic and color palette, letting us know Logan’s still on duty, even when off duty (and looking for booty.) Perfection.
Tom Neyman as The Master – MANOS: THE HANDS OF FATE (1966)
Torgo’s knees quake with jealousy over the bold, simple design of this iconic ensemble. The Master’s robe say I’m gonna get handsy—which is really what collecting wives is all about, isn’t it? Head’s up, Neyman’s daughter actually makes replicas of these on Etsy which you can buy!
Cary Grant as David – BRINGING UP BABY (1939)/Cary Grant as Nick – MY FAVORITE WIFE (1940)
He’s got it, and he’s flaunting it. Subversive? Coy? Gender bender? Ground breaker? All of the above. Don’t make me choose between these animal inspired masterpieces.
Edith Scob as Christiane Génessier – EYES WITHOUT A FACE (1960)
In a world of elegant house coats and peignoirs, be a white, belted robe with satin trim (courtesy of Givenchy.) A testament to the innocence only a receiver of stolen faces can embody. This deceptively simple design even made the poster!
Jeff Bridges as The Dude – THE BIG LEBOWSKI (1998)
Neither suave nor sexy, The Dude’s beige statement piece is a character-defining robe like no other, telling us everything we need to know about El Duderino in the blink of an eye. And dare I say… it really ties the role together?
Sylvester Stallone as Rocky Balboa in ROCKY (1976)
You probably remember The Italian Stallion, but did you remember he was sponsored by Shamrock Meats, Inc? Of course not. BTW, Ivan Drago tried to crib this look for Rocky IV, and I’m delighted to inform you he. could. never.
Amanda Donohoe as Lady Sylvia Marsh – LAIR OF THE WHITE WORM (1988)
Nothing says “I’m a snake, actually” like a green robe with tastefully scattered scales. Sexy. Sleek. Exudes the perfect cold-blooded confidence to sssseduce a naif Hugh Grant.
Tilda Swinton as Madame Blanc – SUSPIRIA (2018)
Costumes are a big win in this ambitious remake of Dario Argento’s masterpiece where Tilda Swinton has some Joan Bennett and Alida Valli sized shoes to fill. Lucky for us she does it in style.
Samantha Robinson as Elaine – THE LOVE WITCH (2016)
There are two iconic chiffon robes in THE LOVE WITCH, but with its Hammer Horror throwback golden cord that gives us medieval: but make it ’60s vibes, this playful robin’s egg blue number (handmade by director Anna Biller) tells you everything about Elaine’s hopeful, retro-tease seduction style.
Criteria:
- A) Awesomeness
- B) Comfort
- C) Character-defining or otherwise iconic (like making it onto the poster)
#GreatRobesofCinema
FAQ:
What is a Robe? A Robe is not: a house coat, nightgown, or baby blue terrycloth romper. You don’t sleep in it (at least on purpose) or wear it outdoors (unless you’re getting the mail or meeting the delivery guy.) You might be able to disguise it as a dress, but it would be much more comfortable for falling alseep watching Columbo reruns on the couch. It performs no function beyond comfort and cover: it is not a medical accessory, a traditional religious garment, a school uniform, or a generous cape. No, a robe denotes leisure, fashion-forward agoraphobia, and a complete unwillingness to put on pants while still mantaining a certain standard of chic. It might be a hint of something tantalizing to come, but doesn’t promise anything: that’s it’s power and charm. You know it when you see it. A robe is a state of dress—that’s also a state of mind.
